Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Coch. · iv Executive Summary The purpose of the Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Cocheco River is to summarize

Rapids on the Cocheco River

Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Cocheco River

June 2006

ii


Prepared for

Cocheco River Watershed Coalition Dover, NH

Prepared by

Danna B. Truslow D.B. Truslow Associates

Rye, NH 03870

June 2006

This report was funded in part by a grant from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services as authorized by the US Environmental Protection Agency pursuant to Section 319 of the Clean Water Act.

iii

Cocheco River Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan

Acknowledgments

The Cocheco River Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan was completed through the efforts of many committed individuals, watershed communities, and professionals. The executive committee of the Cocheco River Watershed Coalition (CRWC) identified the need for this process and conceived the idea of a restoration plan. They provided valuable guidance and oversight throughout the planning process.Volunteers donated thousands of hours of their time to amass the data used to form the technical basis for the plan. Many concerned citizens and professionals responded to a survey prepared for the restoration planning process to provide a better understanding of the needs and desires of the communities in the watershed. The restoration planning committee devoted many hours to developing the goals, objectives and actions included in the plan.

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) provided the funds and professional support for water quality sampling and for the completion of the restoration and implementation plan. In particular, Ted Walsh who heads the Volunteer River Assessment Program (VRAP) provided excellent assistance throughout sampling episodes and helped to formulate new sampling points and future sampling efforts. Natalie Landry from the Watershed Management Bureau of DES provided thorough and meaningful editing comments, detailed assessment unit information, and stormwater loading calculations. These data were fundamental to the completion of this project.

This plan is dedicated to the concerned citizen volunteers in the watershed whose interest in the River underlined the need for sound watershed planning and management and propelled the planning process forward, and who will use this plan and associated reports to make informed decisions in their communities.

University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension provided office space, its facilitiesand staff support staff for the CRWC. Additionally their supplemental funding supported printing and distribution of this document. The United States Environmental Protection Agency supported the completion of the plan through funding dedicated to successful implementation of Section 319 of the Clean Water Act. Finally, this plan could not have been completed without the hard work, dedication, and substantial contributions of Lorie Chase, Project Coordinator for the Cocheco River Watershed Coalition.

iv

Executive Summary

The purpose of the Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Cocheco River is to summarize current watershed conditions, explain the restoration planning process, and describe the goals, objectives and actions developed by members of the watershed community.

Prior to completion of this plan, the Cocheco River Watershed Environmental Quality Report was prepared (Fargo & Truslow, 2005). This set the scene for developing the restoration plan and helped guide another companion document, the Cocheco River Watershed Monitoring Plan - 2006 and 2007 (Truslow & Fargo, 2006). The Cocheco River Watershed Coalition has monitored the water quality of the river in association with the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services since 1999. These organizations developed the concept for completing this group of guidance documents and will continue to work together to implement the Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Cocheco River.

The Cocheco River Watershed includes twelve major tributary streams including the Mad River, Dames Brook, Ela River, Rattlesnake River, Hurd Brook, Willow (Wordley) Brook, Axe Handle Brook, Blackwater Brook, Reyners Brook, Indian Brook, Rollins Brook and the Isinglass River. In addition, seventeen lakes and ponds are within the watershed boundary (Hull, 1997). Wetlands, and smaller named and unnamed headwater brooks and streams also feed into the larger stream and river system that makes up the Cocheco River Watershed. The location of the watershed in southeastern New Hampshire is shown in Figure 1. The Cocheco River Watershed is part of the Great Bay Estuary, a nationally recognized ecosystem that was accepted into the National Estuary Program in 1996. The river is one of the seven major rivers that flow into the estuary.

The area covered by the Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan is bounded to the north by Birch Ridge in New Durham and to the east by Nute Ridge and several smaller drumlins that separate it from the Salmon Falls River watershed. To the south

Canoeing the Cocheco

v

Prospect Mountain, the Blue Hills Range and the edge of Mallego Plains bound the watershed.

There are five subwatersheds within the study area - the Upper Cocheco, Axe Handle Brook, Middle Cocheco, Lower Isinglass, and Lower Cocheco subwatersheds. Many proposed actions and concerns within the plan are specific to these subwatersheds.

The entire watershed is experiencing rapid growth and development. Between 1990 and 2000, there was a 5.9 % increase in impervious cover. In the Lower Cocheco Watershed, one of the more developed subwatersheds, the 2000 impervious cover was estimated at 12%. The population of the watershed is expected to increase 21% between 2000 and 2020. The rural communities in the Upper and Middle Cocheco watersheds, which lack extensive infrastructure, are especially vulnerable to rapid sprawl-like growth. The mostly volunteer municipal boards – planning, zoning and conservation – need reliable information about the watershed so that good decisions can be made about land use. It is hoped that towns will adopt this plan as part of their master plan and see that their decisions may affect other areas up and down the watershed.

As more focus turns to quality of life, economic vitality, and rejuvenation of towns and cities, there is a growing understanding of the importance of the river to the overall health of the communities through which it flows. The plan is timely for all of these reasons and provides a foundation to coordinate efforts between citizens, agencies and municipalities.

After a thorough evaluation of current conditions and a lengthy planning process, four goals were established for restoration:

o Public Perception and Education Goal - Change the negative public perception of and behavior toward the Cocheco River so that the assets and benefits of the Cocheco River can be realized.

o Water Quality Restoration Goal - Improve the water quality of the Cocheco River to meet New Hampshire Class B water quality standards by 2015.

o Habitat Improvement Goal - Understand and improve the instream and riparian habitat of the River to assure the ecological well being of the Cocheco River.

o Development and Stormwater Impact Goal - Minimize the impact of current and future development and infrastructure and associated stormwater impacts on the Cocheco River watershed.

Multiple objectives were developed for each goal, and in total, over 80 actions were developed to achieve these goals.

vi

A Watershed Coordinator, governed by a strengthened Cocheco River Watershed Coalition Board of Directors, will carry out plan implementation. A Restoration Technical Advisory Committee will be formed of natural resource professionals, municipal officials and volunteers to guide and evaluate restoration implementation. CRWC will continue to build on the strong relationships it has built with citizens, organizations and municipalities within the watershed in order to effectively implement restoration plans and actions.

viii


Table of Contents Report (Volume 1) Page

Acknowledgements iii

Executive Summary iv

Table of Contents viii

Section 1 – Cocheco River Restoration - Project Overview 1

Section 2 - Where and What is Cocheco River? 2

o The Watershed o Facts and Figureso Recent History of the Cocheco River o Cocheco River Subwatersheds

Section 3 - Restoring the River – A Working Partnership 14

o The Cocheco River Watershed Coalition o Why Restore Now? o Towns and Cities in the Watershed o Working Together

Section 4 - Current Watershed Conditions 18

o Water Quality o Upper Cocheco o Axe Handle Brook o Middle Cocheco o Lower Isinglass o Lower Cocheco o Watershed-Wide Issues

Toxic Metals NutrientsRiparian and Wildlife Habitat Solid Waste

o Gaps in Water Quality Data

ix



o Stormwater Runoff, Development and Impervious Surfaces o Solid Waste o River Habitat o Commercial and Recreational Opportunities

Section 5 - Our Vision for Cocheco River 31

o The Goals of Cocheco River Restoration o What Does Watershed Restoration Mean? o Examples of Watershed Restoration o Benefits to Citizens, Business and the Towns and Cities in the Watershed o Watershed Monitoring and the Watershed Restoration and Implementation

Plan

Section 6 - Cocheco River Watershed Goals,Objectives and Actions 36

o Public Perception and Education Goal Status of Public Perception and Education in the Watershed ObjectivesProposed Actions

o Water Quality Restoration Goal

Current Status of Cocheco River Water Quality ObjectivesProposed Actions

o Wildlife and Habitat Restoration Goal

Current Status of Cocheco River Habitat Quality ObjectivesProposed Actions

o Infrastructure and Water Quality Protection Goal

Current Status of Development Impact and Stormwater Abatement ObjectivesProposed Actions

x

Cocheco River WatershedRestoration and Implementation Plan


Section 7 - Restoration Implementation 58

o Introductiono Cocheco River Watershed Coalition Structure o Organizational Structure for Watershed Restoration Plan Implementation o Restoration and the Monitoring Plan o Funding for Restoration Plan Implementation o Evaluating Success

Glossary of Abbreviations and Acronyms 76

References 77

xi

List of Figures Page

Figure 1 Watershed Location Map vii

Figure 2 Cocheco River Watershed Study Area and Subwatershed Map 3 Figure 3 Impervious Surfaces and Water Resources in New Durham, NH 5 Figure 4 Impervious Surfaces and Water Resources in Middleton, NH 6 Figure 5 Impervious Surfaces and Water Resources in Farmington, NH 7 Figure 6 Impervious Surfaces and Water Resources in Rochester, NH 8 Figure 7 Impervious Surfaces and Water Resources in Dover, NH 9 Figure 8 Estimate of Contaminant Loading by Subwatershed 28

List of Tables

Table 1 Facts and Figures – Cocheco River Watershed Study Area 10 Table 2 Subwatersheds of the Cocheco River 13 Table 3 Key Participants in the Cocheco River Restoration

Planning Process 17 Table 4 Designated Uses of State Surface Waters 19 Table 5a Land Use/Impervious Cover percentage in the

Cocheco Subwatershed 27 Table 5b Estimated Annual Bacterial, Suspended Solids and

Phosphorus Load 27 Table 6 Public Perception and Education Actions 38 Table 7 Water Quality Summary – Cocheco River Subwatersheds 42 Table 8 Water Quality Restoration Actions 45 Table 9 Habitat Improvement Actions 50 Table 10 Development and Stormwater Impact Actions 55 Table 11a Tasks to be Completed – Year One 68 Table 11b Tasks to be Completed – Year Two 71 Table 12 Restoration Implementation Budget – Years One and Two 74

xii

Cocheco River WatershedRestoration and Implementation Plan

Table of Contents Appendices (Volume 2)

Appendix A - Water Quality Assessment Unit Information

Appendix B - Sediment, Bacterial, and Nutrient Load Calculations

Appendix C – Detailed Action Plans

Appendix D – Evaluating the Success of the Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Cocheco River

1


Section 1 – Cocheco River Restoration - A Project Overview

Since 1998, the Cocheco River Watershed Coalition (CWRC) has been working with the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) to monitor the water quality of the river. In 1999, the Cocheco River Watch was established with three monitoring teams under the direction of the DES Volunteer River Assessment Program (VRAP). In an effort to better understand and document the broad range of technical issues relating to the health of the watershed, the CWRC applied for a grant from the DES funded through the Section 319 Clean Water Act grants program. In 2003 the DES awarded the CRWC funds to support a project titled, Environmental Quality Characterization and Recommended Monitoring and Restoration for the Cocheco River.According to DES:

This project aims to establish a baseline of existing conditions, identify sources of contaminants and determine impacts on the Cocheco River ecosystem as a whole. This will be accomplished through the compilation and analysis of existing information, creation of watershed and site descriptions and land use cover maps, to determine recommendations for future monitoring programs and restoration activities within the Cocheco River Watershed.

D.B. Truslow Associates was contracted by the Cocheco River Watershed Coalition to write three documents:

1. An Environmental Quality Report that describes the pollution issues, pollution sources and the resulting human and biological impacts, if known. The report identifies gaps in information for both spatial coverage and measured parameters. This document was completed in February 2005.

2. A Monitoring Plan that addresses issues and pollutants that have been identified as important in previous studies. This document provides guidance for monitoring long-term trends and the success of the restoration efforts described in the Restoration and Implementation Plan.

3. A Restoration and Implementation Plan that describes actions to address the environmental quality problems, the steps needed to complete the restorative action, measures for success, community interest, an estimated budget for each restoration action, and an organizational structure for implementation.

All three documents guide the watershed management of the Cocheco River. This plan, the Cocheco River Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan, was built using the environmental quality report information and surveys completed by local stakeholders. It is the guide for the community to use to restore the degraded parts of the river and protect the habitat and recreational uses cherished by all who fish, swim and paddle on the river.

2

Section 2- Where and What is Cocheco River?

The Watershed

A watershed is the total area of land that is drained by the network of streams and their related drainage features. The Cocheco River watershed encompasses approximately 185 square miles. This watershed makes up one portion of the larger Piscataqua and Salmon Falls rivers watershed in southeastern New Hampshire and southwestern Maine. (Fargo and Truslow, 2005). The Cocheco River is one of seven major rivers that flow into the Great Bay Estuary, a nationally recognized estuary that was accepted into the National Estuary Program in 1996.

The physical, chemical and biological makeup of a river system is a direct result of the landscape around it. Slope, soil and rock type, vegetation, climate, and manmade changes to the landscape all effect stream geometry, water quality, and the community of plants and animals that occupy it. In other words, what happens on land has a direct bearing and impact on neighboring streams and rivers.

The Cocheco River Watershed includes twelve major tributary streams including the Mad River, Dames Brook, Ela River, Rattlesnake River, Hurd Brook, Willow (Wordley) Brook, Axe Handle Brook, Blackwater Brook, Reyners Brook, Indian Brook, Rollins Brook and the Isinglass River. In addition, seventeen lakes and ponds are within the watershed boundary (Hull, 1997). Wetlands, and smaller named and unnamed headwater brooks and streams also feed into the larger stream and river system that makes up the Cocheco River Watershed. The location of the watershed in southeastern New Hampshire is shown on Figure 1.

The activities of the Cocheco River Watershed Coalition (CRWC) have concentrated primarily on assessing the main stem of the river from its upper reaches in Farmington, through Rochester, to just above the tidal waters in downtown Dover. The project area encompassed by this restoration plan covers this area and the smaller streams and watershed areas that feed this main stem.

The Isinglass River watershed is not included in the project area. In 2002, the Isinglass River became a designated river according to the requirements of the New Hampshire Rivers Management and Protection Program. A Local Advisory Committee was formed to monitor and guide the activities along the Isinglass and to cooperate with other watershed organizations in the area. The Cocheco River restoration area is shown as the CRWC Study Area in Figure 2. This area has been calculated to encompass 101.7 square miles.

The study area is bounded to the north by Birch Ridge in New Durham, to the east by Nute Ridge and several smaller drumlins that separate it from the Salmon Falls River watershed. To the south Prospect Mountain, the Blue Hills Range and the edge of Mallego Plains bound the watershed.

The geology of today’s Cocheco landscape changes dramatically throughout the watershed. In the upper watershed, glacial till and bedrock make up the majority of the near subsurface materials. These landscapes were carved from the rock by glaciers and

!r

!r

ÇÇ ÇÇ%2%2

%2

%2

%2%2%2%2

%2%2

%2

%2

%2%2

%2

%2

%2

%2%2

%2%2

%2%2

%2%2 %2%2

%2

%2

NE

WDU

RH

AM

MID

DLE

TON

N

E

W

D

U

R

H

A

M

MIL

TO

N

MI D

DLE

TO

N

STR

AFFO

RD

CO

UN

TY

M

I

L

T

O

N

Ne w Durha m

MILTO

N

Milton

NE

WD

UR

HA

M

MILTONFARMINGTON

Fa rming to n

NE

WD

UR

HA

MF

AR

MIN

GT

ON

STR

AF FOR D COU NTY , N H

Ho rn et own

F

A

R

M

I

N

G

T

O

N

ST

RA

FF

OR

DC

OU

NT

Y

FA

RM

ING

TO

NR

OC

HE

ST

ER

East Roche ste r

Straff ord

Me rr ill

FAR MINGTON

Co rn ers

STR AFFORD

ST

RA

FF

OR

D

R

O

C

H

E

S

T

E

R

Rochester

ROCHESTERSTR AFFORD

SOMERSWORT H

T

R

A

F

F

O

R

D

We st Go nic

Ce nte r

Straff ord

RO

CH

ES

TE

RS

OM

ER

SW

OR

TH

ROCHESTERBARRINGTON

S TRA FFO RD CO UN TY, NH

S

O

M

E

R

S

W

O

R

T

H

Som ersworth

SOMERSWORT H

RA

FF

OR

DR

ING

TO

N

DOVER

DO

VE

R

RO

CH

ES

TE

R

SOM

ER

SW

OR

TH

RO

LLIN

SFO

RD

DO

VE

R

BA

RR

ING

TO

N

East Ba rr ing ton N

ROL L INS

FO

RD

DO

VER

Do ver

D

O

V

E

R

BELK

NAP

CO

UNTY

ALTO

N

ALTONBAR NSTEAD

BE

LK

NA

PC

OU

NTY

BA

RN

ST

EA

D

NSTEADFIELD

LEBA

NO

N

YO RK CO U NTY , ME

Sou th Le ban on

BERW IC K

YORK COUNT Y, ME

MARCHS POND

Littl

eFa

lls

River

Rd

Pokam

oons

hine

Brk

Rattlesnake R iver

Ela

M

3W

M

3W

Birch Ridge

Cardinal Landfill

Farmington Landfill

Rochester WasteWater Treatment Plant

Farmington WasteWater Treatment Plant

29-Cch

38-Cch

27-Cch26-Cch

04-Ela00-Mar

25-Cch

01-Pok

22-Cch

21-Cch

18-Cch

16-Cch

15-Cch

13-Cch

06-Cch

10-Cch09-Cch 07-Cch

23-Cch

19-Cch

12-Cch

11-Cch

23D-Cch

22U-Cch

22S-Cch22J-Cch

10A-Cch 07'-Cch

23S-Cch

U p p e r C o c h e c o R i v e r

M i d d l e C o c h e c o R i v e r

L o w e r C o c h e c o R i v e r

L o w e r I s i n g l a s s R i v e r

A x e H a n d l e B r o o k

C o c h e c o R i v e r W a t e r s h e d S t u d y A r e a

©0 5,0002,500

Feet

0 0.5 1 1.5 20.25Miles

GRID NORTHNH State PlaneNAD 1983 (feet)

Key Locations in the Watershed

M Cardinal Landfill

M Farmington Landfill

3W Rochester Waste Water Treatment Plant

3W Farmington Waste Water Treatment PlantSelected Town and Private Beach Locations

!r BIRCH HILL SUMMER CAMP BEACH

!r BOW LAKE - BENNETT BRIDGE BEACH

!r BOW LAKE - MARY WALDRON BEACH

!r BOW LAKE - TOWN BEACH

!r SUNRISE LAKE - TOWN BEACHRoadsPrivate Roads

Legend

Sub-watersheds Outside the Study AreaHUC 12 Sub-watersheds

Axe Handle Brook

Lower Cocheco River

Lower Isinglass River

Middle Cocheco River

Upper Cocheco River

%2 TDML Station

NH Town Boundaries

Data Sources

Surface water features, and study area boundaries were collected by Tom Fargo and Associates with GPSequipment and provided to SRPC.TDML station locations were were taken from the NHDES data library. However some locations weredigitized on screen by SRPC staff.

All other data sources except for road data were taken from the NH GRANIT System. Digital data in NH GRANITrepresent the efforts of the contributing Agencies to record info from the cited source materials Complex SystemsResearch Center (CSRC), under contract to the Office of State Planning (OSP), and in consultation withcooperating agencies. Maintaining a continuing program to identify and correct errors in these data. NeitherOSP or CSRC make any claim as to the validity or reliability or to any implied uses of these data NH GRANITSystem. Digital data in NH GRANIT represent the efforts of the contributing Agencies to record info from thecited source materials Complex Systems Research Center (CSRC), under contract to the Office of StatePlanning (OSP), and in consultation with cooperating agencies. Maintaining a continuing program to identifyand correct errors in these data. Neither OSP or CSRC make any claim as to the validity or reliability or to anyimplied uses of these data.

1:90,000

Prepared by Strafford Regional Planning Commission2 Ridge Street, Suite 4, Dover, NH 03820T: (603) 742-2523 F: (603) 742-7986 em: [email protected]//Author: August 2004 // DEAModified Date//By: 9/22/04 //DEAPath: M:\Requests\Nonmember\Tom_Fargo\Cocheco_mapfinal_11x17.mxdPrint Date: September 27, 2005

4

streams leaving behind areas with thin soil cover and elongated hills called drumlins formed by the advance of the glacier, and made up largely of glacial till.

Just downstream of downtown Farmington, the character of Cocheco geology changes dramatically. Thick sand and gravel deposits left by melting glaciers occupy the river bottom and valley. Sand and gravel companies have been extracting these materials for construction for decades. Broader floodplains, wetlands and backwaters occupy the lower watershed area where these same meltwater deposits of sands, gravels, silt and marine-deposited clays cover bedrock and glacial till. Many of the sand and gravel deposits near the main stem of the Cocheco are considered highly productive aquifers, which could yield appreciable groundwater for public water supplies. Wetlands in the Middle and Lower Cocheco watersheds are important to recharge of aquifers and sustain surrounding streams and the river.

Facts and Figures

Some facts and figures on the Cocheco River Watershed Study area are included in Table 1. This information illustrates the importance of the river to the area and the impacts that the human population has and will continue to have on the watershed. For a glossary of hydrologic terms used in the report, please refer to the web address http://www.srh.noaa.gov/fwr/resources/glossary. A glossary of acronyms and abbreviations is included at the end of this report.

Figures 3 through 7 provided by the New Hampshire Estuaries Project (NHEP, 2004), illustrate some of the physical characteristics of the major towns in the watershed. These characteristics include impervious surfaces as of 1990 and in 2000 shown in yellow and red, respectively. Areas served by public water supply are shown in medium gray, and high transmissivity aquifers are shown in light blue. Lands protected for conservation are shown in green. These figures especially illustrate the changes in the rural areas that surround Dover, Rochester and Farmington, and in the upper watershed. The towns of New Durham and Middleton make up an appreciable percent of the total area of the Upper Cocheco Watershed and still have relatively little impervious cover. This low percentage is important to maintain in the headwater streams area where recharge and good initial water quality are crucial. More evaluation of the Somersworth area (approximately 20% in the Lower Cocheco Subwatershed) and Milton (approximately 10% in the Upper “Cocheco Watershed) area will be made as restoration proceeds.

10

Table 1 Facts and Figures - Cocheco River Watershed Study Area

Source: Fargo & Truslow, 2005

Facts Figures Area of Cocheco River Watershed Study Area 101.7 square miles

Number of designated Subwatersheds 5

Elevation Change Along River (headwaters to Cocheco Dam in Dover)

730 feet

Median Daily Discharge (at Rochester) 71 cubic feet per second

Maximum Recorded Discharge (at Rochester) 2980 cubic feet per second

Minimum Recorded Discharge (at Rochester) 2 cubic feet per second

Total Discharge to Estuary 9.01 billion cubic feet per year

Human Population of Watershed – 2000 68,689

Projected Human Population – 2020 83,370

Projected Population Change 2000 to 2020 14,681 (21.4%)

Impervious Surface Area, Lower Cocheco- 2000 12%

Acres of Conservation Land in Study Area - 2003 5300 acres

Watershed wide Change in Impervious Surface Area – 1990 to 2000

5.9 %

Recent History of the Cocheco River

The Cocheco River gets its name from the falls in downtown Dover. Cocheco, meaning rapidly foaming water, was the name given to the falls by the Native Americans, and the English settlers adopted that name for the entire river (Thompson, 1892). The following history of the Cocheco is summarized from a presentation given by Rueben Hull, in November 1997 (Hull, 1997).

Prior to the arrival of English settlers in the early 1600s, the area was used by the Abenakis for fishing, hunting and agriculture. Later, many of the native inhabitants were decimated by “infectious fever” prior to 1620. English settlers farmed, fished and logged the area around Hilton Point and near the falls of the Cocheco in what is now Dover, the oldest continuously occupied town in New Hampshire. Rochester was chartered in 1722 in the area around present day Gonic. Farmington was formed in 1798 and was part of the town of Rochester at that time.

11

By the mid 1600s lumber mills were being set up along the river and boat building became a growing industry. Shops that made products from the lumber and numerous brickyards using the clays from the banks of the Cocheco were also established.

In the late 1600s acts of Parliament ruled that all pines greater than 25 inches in diameter were the property of the King of England. These pines were felled for use as masts for military vessels. “Mast” roads were carved out of the forest to provide the shortest path to the river for transportation. Farming also came to the region and was practiced by many residents in order to assure self-sufficiency.

At the time of settlement in the early 1600s, the area was 96% forested. Increased forestry and farming began to reduce the forest cover especially the overstory trees. Elk and caribou, formerly native to the region, retreated to more forested areas and deer became more abundant. Beginning in the 1850s, sheep grazing became a growing agricultural endeavor to supply wool for mills. This period marked the time that forest cover was reduced to its lowest level of 39%. The current forest cover is approximately 81 % (Black, 2005).

In the early 1800s mills began to proliferate along the Cocheco. The Cocheco’s abundant waterpower and nearby raw materials allowed for production of wool cloth and products, wood products, iron, machinery, tanned leather and leather products. Later, trains brought raw materials for manufacture to the area as well. Dover produced primarily cotton fabric and prints. Woolens were manufactured in

Rochester and East Rochester, and tanned leather and shoes were produced in Farmington, Somersworth, Milton, Rochester and Dover.

By the early 20th century, farming was in decline and forests began to reclaim much of the farmland. Many mills moved out of the region by the 1940s and suburbanization began. Areas in the upper watershed became vacation camps for residents from cities to the south.

Landfills were located along the Cocheco in Farmington, Rochester and Dover. These included the Farmington Municipal Landfill, the Cardinal Landfill (largely industrial/commercial waste), Rochester municipal landfill near the old Granite Ford Building, and the Tolend Road landfill in Dover, a municipal landfill. All but the Farmington landfill are now closed but some remain a continuing source of groundwater pollution. Turnkey, the Waste Management Landfill, is located in Rochester Neck at the confluence of the Cocheco River and the Isinglass River. This is a fully lined landfill and appears to have no influence on the quality of groundwater or surface water nearby.

The Cocheco, which had become polluted by mill activity and the discharge of raw sewage, began its environmental renewal with the enactment of the Clean Water Act in 1972 (revised in 1977). Wastewater treatment plants (WWTP’s) were built or improved

12

in Dover, Rochester and Farmington in the mid 1970s. Dover’s WWTP was relocated downstream of the lower Cocheco Falls in Dover in the 1990s. Rochester’s WWTP was significantly upgraded in the late 1990s. Farmington’s WWTP has not yet been upgraded but there is a desire to improve the plant and possibly extend service in town.

Groundwater, wetland and shoreland protection measures enacted over the last two decades have also helped to safeguard natural resources and habitats but rapid growth has again put stresses on these resources. Increased suburbanization took an upturn in growth in the late 1970’s. In the past five years even more rapid growth and commercial development has put additional pressure on the area. Stormwater runoff and increased stress on sanitary and storm sewers has taken its toll on the health of the watershed.

Human activities in the 21st century will pose many challenges for those engaged in keeping the Cocheco River watershed an attractive and vibrant place for people to live while also protecting the health of natural resources and wildlife habitat.

Cocheco River Subwatersheds

Subwatersheds are discrete drainage areas that make up a larger watershed. Subwatersheds were delineated by the US Geological Survey and were usually named for the streams that occupy that drainage area. There are five subwatersheds within the study area for the Cocheco River Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan. These include the Upper Cocheco, Axe Handle Brook, Middle Cocheco, Lower Isinglass, and Lower Cocheco subwatersheds. Table 2 provides a summary of the characteristics of each subwatershed. Figure 2 illustrates the locations of these subwatershed areas. Many proposed actions within this plan are specific to these subwatersheds, and these designations will be used throughout the plan.

13

Table 2Subwatersheds of the Cocheco River

(Subwatershed areas shown on Figure 2)

Subwatershed Name

Towns/Cities in Watershed

Area(squaremiles)

Characteristics

Upper Cocheco New Durham, Middleton,Milton,Farmington

43.2 Largely rural and lightly developed in upper portions. Density around upper lakes and ponds increasing. Densely settled village area of Farmington and commercial zone on Route 11 in the lower portion of the subwatershed.

Middle Cocheco Farmington, Rochester

24.9 Sand and gravel industries, Farmington waste water treatment plant, and landfills in upper portion. Lightly developed in middle portion. Lower portion heavily developed around urbanized areas of Rochester. Rapid suburbanization is decreasing the area of open lands in middle and lower portions of subwatershed. A large wetland complex, Heath Bog, occurs in this area.

Axe Handle Brook Farmington, Rochester

11.6 Rural to light suburban development overall. Lower portion more heavily developed. Commercial/residential area near confluence of the brook with the main stem of the Cocheco River. Rochester Reservoir in this area.

Lower Isinglass Rochester 22.8 Area around Gonic heavily settled. Includes Rochester wastewater treatment plant. Balance of area lightly settled, but becoming more suburbanized. Turnkey, the regional landfill is located in this subwatershed where it joins the Middle Cocheco subwatershed at Rochester Neck.

Lower Cocheco Rochester, Dover, Somersworth

25.3 Lightly developed or suburbanized in upper subwatershed. Rapid growth in formerly rural areas. Densely settled and urbanized in lower subwatershed in Dover City Center. Large wetland complex at the Hoppers and along the Blackwater Brook. Important wetlands also surround Gonic Hill near the northern boundary of the subwatershed.

14

Section 3 - Restoring the River – A Working Partnership

The Cocheco River Watershed Coalition

The Cocheco River Watershed Coalition (CRWC) emerged in 1998 after a year of citizen exploration of the watershed with guidance from Strafford Regional Planning Commission and Strafford County UNH Cooperative Extension, and funding from New Hampshire Estuaries Project (NHEP). In 1999 a small group committed to organizing river protection set goals and bylaws for the group. They began to tackle the issues identified in preliminary investigations of water quality, public access and environmental conditions. Initial activities included canoe trips, riverside cleanups, youth programming and water quality monitoring. The CRWC goals are as follows:

The Coalition wants watershed communities to regard the river as an asset, to foster the environmental health of the river and to derive benefits from the river.

The Coalition wants healthy fish populations in the watershed as indications of ecological well-being and for recreation and consumption.

The Coalition wants citizens of the watershed to have access to a clean, healthy river and to develop a stewardship ethic regarding the watershed.

In this unique partnership the grassroots-based CRWC draws on the educational resources of Strafford County UNH Cooperative Extension and the technical resources of state resource agencies. Since 1999, water quality monitoring has been refined and expanded with continued NH Coastal Program and DES support. CRWC has published river guides including The Cocheco Sampler, published in 2000, which is an introductory guide to exploring the watershed. The Public Access Guide, 2003, introduced the public to the access points and recreational opportunities along the river and upland in the watershed. The group also assessed headwater streams and fish habitat and, most recently, conducted biological monitoring along segments of the main stem of the River.

Meanwhile watershed communities are turning to the river with new interest in planning, management and protection. Much of the investigation is focused on the river because conditions in the river reflect the environmental status of the larger watershed. Because water travels downhill and downstream, conditions upland and upstream effect conditions downstream in the more densely populated communities of the Cocheco River Valley.

The voluminous data volunteers have gathered were summarized in agency reports, resting on shelves and not particularly interesting reading for the citizen volunteers who make decisions in our communities. This restoration planning project began with writing of the Cocheco River Watershed Environmental Quality Report (EQR (Fargo & Truslow, 2005), based on all the data available and presented in relation to the prevailing watershed issues. It was written for community decision-makers (actually all of us make

15

decisions that effect the watershed) to use as a basis for restoration and other management activities in the watershed.

This new restoration plan draws on that EQR and the collective wisdom of citizen participants from throughout the watershed. For Cocheco River Watershed Coalition members, it is a culmination of seven years of information gathering, exploration and recreation on the river. It is also the beginning of a period of opportunity for citizens and communities in the watershed to take action, which will improve the quality of our environment.

Why Restore Now?

Thanks to the actions of citizens, municipalities and organizations in the area, restoration of the Cocheco River is ongoing. From the progress made through wastewater treatment plant improvements, point source discharge reduction, and landfill cleanup to land protection and improved stormwater treatment methods there are positive changes along the river. The economic growth of the area and the corresponding commercial, industrial and residential development will place strains on the health of the watershed and ultimately, the river, even with incorporation of good planning and management.

The rural communities in the Upper and Middle Cocheco, which lack extensive infrastructure, are under increasing development pressure. The mostly volunteer municipal boards – planning, zoning and conservation – need reliable information about the watershed so that good decisions can be made about land use. It is hoped that all watershed towns will adopt this plan as part of their master plan and see that their decisions may affect other areas up and down the watershed.

As more focus turns to quality of life, economic vitality, and rejuvenation of towns and cities, there is a growing understanding of the importance of the river to the overall health of the communities through which it flows. The plan is timely for all of these reasons and provides a foundation to coordinate efforts between citizens, agencies and municipalities.

Towns and Cities in the Watershed

A total of thirteen towns or cities lie within the larger Cocheco River Watershed. Seven towns or cities occupy the study area included in this plan and they are Middleton, New Durham, Milton, Farmington, Rochester, Somersworth, and Dover (See Figure 2). New Durham is the most rural of the towns and is lightly settled. Middleton has a village center on Sunrise Lake, but most of the remaining area remains lightly developed. Both New Durham and Middleton have multiple ponds and tributaries that contribute to the Cocheco in this headwaters area. The portion of Milton that is within the watershed is also quite rural and hilly. The portion of Somersworth within the watershed is rural to lightly settled suburban type development.

The cities of Rochester and Dover are the largest communities in the watershed and were the most industrialized. The heavily settled areas of Farmington, Rochester and Dover

16

are clustered along the main stem of the Cocheco as transportation, energy and water for consumption were historically derived from the river. Farmington, Rochester and Dover are also actively working to improve infrastructure that will help to improve water quality and prevent future degradation of the river.

Working Together

The CRWC has a history of working together with municipalities, businesses, community organizations and agencies to understand and improve the river. The success of restoration will be based on the good will that the organization has built since its formation in 1998. The individuals that made a significant contribution to this restoration plan through interviews, river tours, and participation on the restoration planning committee are listed in Table 3. The committee that developed the goals, objectives and many of the actions described in the plan represent this broad constituency. The actions will be carried out using this model of cooperation.

17

Table 3 Key Participants in the Cocheco River Restoration Planning Process

Name Affiliation Town/City George Bailey Conservation Commission, Chair (retired) Rochester

Norma Bard Cocheco River Watershed Coalition, Treasurer Dover

Anna Boudreau Strafford Rivers Conservancy, Executive Director Dover

Lorie Chase Cocheco River Watershed Coalition, Project Coordinator Barrington/Dover

Tom Clough Educator Rochester

Irene Creteau Cocheco River Watershed Coalition, Vice Chair, NH Legislator

Rochester

Alan Davis Waste Management, Inc, Turnkey Landfill Manager Rochester

Joyce El Kouarti Dover Open Lands, Former Director, Moose Mt. Regional Greenways

Dover

Paul Esswien Town of Farmington, Planner Farmington

Tom Fargo Dover Open Space Committee, Conservation Commission Chair, Strafford Regional Planning Chair

Dover

Bob Goldstein Former Rochester City Council Rochester

Lauren Jacoby Cocheco River Watershed Coalition, Exec. Committee Dover

Charlie King Farmington Planning Board, Chair Farmington

Ed Mullen Conservation Commission, Former Chair, Cocheco River Watershed Coalition Member

Farmington

John Nolan Rochester Times, Editor Rochester/Strafford

Paul Perry Cocheco River Watershed Coalition, Member New Durham

Dean Peschel Dover Community Services, Environmental Projects Manager

Dover

Bill Sammis Cocheco River Watershed Coalition, Executive Committee

Rochester

Cal Schroeder Cocheco River Watershed Coalition, Chair, Former County Commissioner, Strafford Conservation Commission

Strafford

Sue Snow Cocheco River Watershed Coalition, Secretary Somersworth

Brian Stern Dover Open Lands, NH Technical Advisory Group Dover

Tom Willis Rochester Public Works Department, City Engineer Rochester

Jeff Winders Cocheco River Watershed Coalition, Executive Committee, Rochester Conservation Commission

Rochester

18

Section 4 - Current Watershed Conditions

Water Quality

From 1999 to 2003, volunteers and staff of CRWC collected and tested over 750 samples for water quality along the length of the Cocheco River. The 2005 Cocheco River Environmental Quality Report (EQR) reviewed and analyzed the data collected from 1999 to 2003. The focus of study of the EQR was the analyses and interpretation of dissolved oxygen, pH, bacteria, metals and nutrients data from a variety of reports and monitoring programs. These are indicators of water quality related to State water quality standards and were the parameters most often completed by CRWC volunteers during the recent water quality sampling history.

Historical impacts on water quality include clearing of land for farming and timber harvesting, waste discharge from mills, stormwater runoff and direct discharge of sewage to the river, and treated effluent from wastewater treatment plants. Contaminated groundwater also discharged to the river from unlined landfills and commercial and industrial activities in the many sand, gravel and clay deposits. Current impacts are documented from closed and active landfills, wastewater treatment plant discharge, untreated septic/sewage discharge, stormwater runoff, unstable road crossings, and erosion and resulting sedimentation from construction activities along its course.

The following discussion of water quality is based on the findings of the EQR, which includes information about the State’s assessment of waterbodies. A summary table of this information is included in Appendix A.

The State of New Hampshire water quality standards provide baseline guidance that all surface waters of the State must meet in order to protect their intended uses. These standards are the “yardstick” for identifying where water quality violations exist. They also help determine the effectiveness of restoration and pollution prevention programs (NHDES, 2004). The standards are divided into three parts, which are (1) designated uses, (2) water quality criteria and (3) anti-degradation.

Designated uses represent the factors or activities that a water body should support.There are seven designated uses that the water quality standards are intended to protect.These designated uses are as follows: aquatic life, fish consumption, shellfish consumption, drinking water supply, primary contact recreation (e.g., swimming), secondary contact recreation (e.g., boating), and wildlife. Water quality criteria are designed to protect the designated uses of all surface waters and are expressed in either numeric or narrative form. A waterbody that meets the criteria for its assigned classification is considered to have attained its intended use (NHDES, 2004).

The third and final component of the water quality standards is antidegradation which includes the provisions designed to preserve and protect the existing beneficial uses and to minimize degradation of the State’s surface waters. For example, antidegradation applies to any proposed new or increased activity that would lower water quality or affect the existing or designated uses.

DES defines each designated use in the 2004 New Hampshire Consolidated Assessment and Listing Methodology (CALM). The following table (Table 4) was taken from that

19

publication. It lists each use, definitions and the applicable surface waters for which assessments are completed.

Table 4 Designated Uses of State Surface Waters Designated Use

(Applicable surface waters) Department of Environmental Services’ Definition

1. Aquatic Life

(All surface waters)

Waters that provide suitable chemical and physical conditions for supporting a balanced, integrated and adaptive community of aquatic organisms.

2. Fish Consumption


Waters that support fish free from pollution at levels that pose a human health risk to consumers.

3. Shellfish Consumption

(All tidal surface waters)

Waters that support a population of shellfish free from toxicants and pathogens that could pose a human health risk to consumers.

4. Drinking Water Supply (All freshwater surface waters)

Waters that with conventional treatment will be suitable for human intake and meet state/federal drinking water regulations.

5. Primary Contact Recreation


Waters suitable for recreational uses that require or are likely to result in full body contact and/or incidental ingestion of water (such as swimming).

6. Secondary Contact Recreation


Waters that support recreational uses that involve minor contact with the water (such as boating or fishing).

7. Wildlife


Waters that provide suitable physical and chemical conditions in the water and riparian corridor to support wildlife as well as aquatic life.

DES determines if surface waters of the State meet certain uses based on available data from DES monitoring efforts and other organizations’ data. These determinations are made for what DES calls “assessment units or AUs.” Each waterbody type in the State (river, stream, lake, pond, estuary, ocean) was divided into smaller segments, which are the AUs. AUs are the basic unit of record for conducting and reporting the results of all water quality assessments (NHDES, 2004). Each of the designated uses, with the exception of wildlife, has a methodology that is used to make an assessment decision. An assessment methodology for wildlife has not yet been developed.

The five subwatersheds covered in this report have numerous assessment units ranging from six in the Lower Isinglass to twenty-one in the Lower Cocheco. Each assessment unit (AU) is evaluated to determine if the designated uses are met for the River. Two of the seven uses were not assessed. The shellfish consumption use is not relevant in freshwater bodies. And, as mentioned previously, an assessment methodology has yet to be developed for wildlife uses. The drinking water use was assessed for only one AU, which is the Rochester Reservoir in the Axe Handle Brook subwatershed.

As is the case for all of the state’s freshwater waterbodies, the fish consumption use is impaired based on mercury pollution from atmospheric deposition. The three remaining uses were assessed for each AU, if data existed for the indicators needed to assess each use. The following section summarizes water quality information classified according to

20

aquatic life use, primary contact recreation and secondary contact recreation as described above. The discussion and tables are divided by the subwatersheds included in the Cocheco Restoration Study Area. The locations of these subwatersheds are illustrated in Figure 2.

Upper Cocheco

The Upper Cocheco does not meet the standards for aquatic life use in five of its nineteen AUs. The causes of this problem include low pH levels in four of the AUs (main stem of Cocheco and Mad River) and the presence of nonnative aquatic plants in Sunrise Lake.DES lists the sources of these impacts as unknown. Also, the standard for swimming (primary contact recreation) is not met for two AUs in the main stem of the river. DES lists the source of the bacteria as unknown. The EQR notes that failing septic systems are suspected in the area between Central and Spring Street as well as other areas in Farmington.

Threats to water quality include sprawl and increasing residential and commercial development in outlying portions of Farmington, especially from inadequate on-site waste disposal systems. These factors, especially housing developments that encroach into sensitive riparian areas are also mentioned as threats to other natural resources.

Upper Cocheco Impairment

Causes Sources

Aquatic life pH & nonnative aquatic plants unknown

Primary Contact Recreation bacteria Failing septic systems

Axe Handle Brook

Axe Handle Brook does not meet the standards for aquatic life use in two of its nine AUs. The cause of the problem is low pH levels in Howard Brook and Baxter Lake. The reason for these low pH levels is currently unknown. The assessment unit for Howard Brook does not meet the standards for either primary or secondary recreation based on bacteria levels. The source of the bacteria is listed as livestock and indicates that livestock wastes are directly deposited or are carried to the brook by stormwater runoff.

The threat to this subwatershed is the increase in residential development including the impacts from increased stormwater runoff and septic systems.

Axe Handle Brook Impairment

Causes Sources

Aquatic life pH unknown

Primary Contact Recreation Elevated bacteria livestock

Secondary Contact Recreation Elevated bacteria livestock

21

Middle Cocheco

The Middle Cocheco does not meet the standards for aquatic life use in six of its thirteen AUs. These six AUs include parts of the Cocheco River main stem, Pokamoonshine Brook, Rattlesnake River, and the 50-acre AU at the City Dam. The causes vary but all have low pH values. Other causes include low dissolved oxygen, elevated aluminum levels, and poor results from habitat and biological surveys, in addition to nonnative aquatic plants present at the City Dam. The EQR notes that the elevated aluminum levels may derive from a combination of natural causes and analytical technique. These aluminum levels may also be a result of sedimentation from stormwater runoff.

The upper-most assessment unit is impacted by the groundwater discharge to the river in the vicinity of the Farmington and Cardinal landfills. DES is in the process of conducting a total maximum daily load (TMDL) including an analysis of the Farmington wastewater treatment facility and the infiltration of contaminated groundwater into the Cocheco River down gradient of the Cardinal and Farmington landfills. Groundwater monitoring has shown elevated nitrate and biological oxygen demand (BOD) down gradient of the Farmington septage lagoons. Concentrations of these contaminants have been observed to increase during dryer seasons and decrease during wetter seasons.

The EQR shows that changes in pH and dissolved oxygen are linked. This relationship suggests that correcting the problems manifested in impaired dissolved oxygen levels may also improve what appears to be a problem with pH levels in the Cocheco River.

The EQR also described degraded stream and riparian habitat based on a survey conducted by EPA in 2001. The surveyed section of the river at Little Falls Bridge reportedly has a good number and diversity of macro-invertebrate organisms, but received low scores overall due to a degraded riparian buffer, namely poor riparian vegetative cover, poor bank stability, and excess sedimentation.

Primary contact recreation is impaired in four of the assessment units, which include the upper main stem, Pokamoonshine Brook and two middle portions along the Middle Cocheco subwatershed. Boating, or secondary contact recreation, is not supported in the upper main stem of the Cocheco River. The recreation uses are not supported based on elevated bacteria levels. The source of the bacteria is listed as unknown.

The EQR notes that illicit discharges into the storm drainage system and cross connections of storm and sanitary sewers are suspected to exist in the older downtown sections where infrastructure is aging. Another persistent site for elevated bacteria levels is 23-Cch and while various sources are suspected more investigation is needed to identify the sources. The EQR states that the seasonal camps at the Rochester Fairgrounds are not serviced by a properly constructed septic system or the City sewer system. Efforts are underway to remedy the situation. In addition, manure storage at the fairgrounds is not adequate. Fairgrounds management has recently sought funds to construct proper manure storage facilities.

22

Middle Cocheco Impairment

Causes Sources

Aquatic life Low pH, low dissolved oxygen,

Elevated aluminum

Poor results from habitat & biological surveys, non-native aquatic plants

pH & DO = suspected to be landfills & WWTF/lagoon discharges

Al=natural causes, stormwater sedimentation

Habitat & biological surveys=poor riparian vegetative cover, poor bank stability and sedimentation

Primary Contact Recreation Elevated bacteria Illicit discharges and possible cross connections

Failing septic systems

Animal waste

Secondary Contact Recreation

Elevated bacteria Same as above

Lower Isinglass

The Lower Isinglass does not meet aquatic life uses in one of its six AUs. The cause of the problem is low dissolved oxygen levels in the main stem of the Cocheco River. The source of the impact is listed as municipal point source discharge. The AU of the Cocheco River at the Gonic Pond dam also does not meet the standards for primary contact recreation based on bacteria levels exceeding the standard and the sources are listed as unknown.

Lower Isinglass Impairment Causes Sources

Aquatic life Low dissolved oxygen Municipal point source

Primary Contact Recreation Elevated bacteria Unknown

Lower CochecoThe Lower Cocheco contains twenty-one assessment units and four do not meet the aquatic life use designation. The cause of the problem is low pH levels in the main stem including the areas behind the Waldron Dam and the Central Avenue Dam and the source is listed as not known.

23

The EQR states that the largest uncontrolled landfill in Dover is the former municipal landfill on Tolend Road. Groundwater seeps along the bank of the river, associated with the so-called eastern plume (subsurface pollution), are impacting the river’s quality.

On the positive side, the EQR notes that the fish diversity and population represented at the Cocheco fish ladder is superior to that found at other fish ladders in coastal New Hampshire. The greatest threat to spawning habitat is low water levels. Dissolved oxygen and temperature, which can be related to water depth, are also major factors in fish habitat quality.

Primary contact recreation is not being met in two of the twenty-one assessment units based on elevated bacteria levels. One of the two AUs is located in the upper portion of the subwatershed on the main stem and the other is a 20- acre AU above the Central Avenue Dam. The source of the elevated levels in the AU near sampling site 10-Cch is unknown but illicit discharges into stormdrain systems are listed as the source for the Central Ave Dam AU. The EQR also notes that there are known septic system failures in the Reyners Brook drainage area. The City of Dover is pursuing funds to extend sewer service to this area.

Lower Cocheco Impairment

Causes Sources

Aquatic life pH Unknown, Tolend Rd landfill discharge suspected

Low water levels

Primary Contact Recreation Elevated bacteria Illicit discharges and possible cross connections

Failed septic systems

Watershed-wide River Quality Issues

Toxic metals

Although impairments caused by toxic metals are not documented, with the exception of the aluminum impairment in the Middle Cocheco, the EQR shows that copper and lead are potentially toxic metals that appear to occur at elevated concentrations at various sampling locations along the river. Sources are suggested to include discharges from wastewater treatment facilities, usually attributed to corrosion of household plumbing fixtures. Fish tissue samples collected statewide by the USEPA and DES show elevated mercury levels. This is thought to be largely a result of air pollution from power plants and incinerators. Air pollution reaches the ground during precipitation events and flows into surface waters where pollutants are ingested by fish through their gills and mouth.

24

Toxic Metal Threats

Causes Sources

Aquatic life Toxic metals Wastewater treatment plant effluent

Fish Consumption Elevated mercury levels Atmospheric pollution

Nutrients

Nitrogen and phosphorus compounds are considered to be nutrients. When dissolved in surface water, these compounds provide aquatic plants with the food (nutrients) to thrive. However some of these aquatic plants can overtake ponds, wetlands, streams and rivers if too many nutrients are present.

Similar to land application of these compounds on crops and gardens (fertilizer), some nutrients are absolutely necessary to healthy plants, but too much can damage surface water environments. Excess nutrients can lead to vegetative blooms that damage stream and river ecosystems and can eventually deplete dissolved oxygen from surface waters. Excessive concentrations of certain nutrient compounds (in particular, nitrite) can also cause harm to humans if consumed for drinking water.

Phosphorus is often the limiting nutrient in freshwater aquatic systems. That is it is often in short supply compared to other nutrients and therefore surface waters are often more sensitive to excess phosphorus than excess nitrogen.

The source of excess nutrients can be from wastewater treatment plant discharge, failed septic systems or direct discharge of septage to surface water. In addition, pet and livestock waste runoff, excess fertilizer runoff from agriculture and landscaping can also be a source of increased nutrients. Along the Cocheco, it was phosphorus that exceeded State water quality standards in over 60% of samples taken. Nitrogen exceeded limits in only 11% of samples. Future sampling and analysis of these excess nutrients requires more attention to pinpoint and reduce sources of this contaminant.

Nutrient Threats Causes Sources

Aquatic Life Phosphorus concentrations increase and result in algae blooms and low dissolved oxygen.

Removal of riparian buffers

Wastewater treatment plant discharges.

Agricultural and pet waste runoff.

Fertilizers from households and agricultural uses.

Primary & Secondary Recreation

Phosphorus concentrations increase and drive algae blooms and increases in aquatic weeds.

Same as above

25

Riparian and Aquatic Wildlife

As mentioned previously, DES does not conduct an assessment for wildlife use at this time. The habitat of the Cocheco River corridor and its tributaries has not been widely studied, but it is beginning to receive more attention. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (NHFG) keeps records of fur bearing mammals trapped and deer hunt totals each year. This survey indicates a healthy population of mammals ranging in size from mink to deer. NHFG also tracks the amount of fish returning to the ladder at Cocheco falls in Dover. Of these species, river herring (alewives and blueback herring) were the most abundant. In 2004, over 70,000 fish were counted on their return upstream. Challenging upstream habitat can limit the success of these fish, especially shallow waters and areas of the river containing low dissolved oxygen.

The EQR mentions that the NHFG conducted a habitat quality mapping project recently and once available, these maps will provide much needed information about terrestrial habitat. Fragmentation of habitat is a rapidly growing problem. The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests (2005) reports that substantial land conversion from forest and farmland to developed uses is now occurring along and between the State’s major transportation corridors including Route 16 (Spaulding Turnpike). SFNHF also reports that New Hampshire is gradually losing the values provided by extensive forests, including their contribution to wildlife habitat, losing about 17,500 acres per year largely to development. Forest blocks big enough to support significant wildlife habitat are already sparse in the Seacoast (SPNHF 2005), meaning preservation of the remaining forests is critical for protecting habitat and wildlife.

A study conducted by USEPA at the Little Falls Bridge in Rochester showed several factors to be compromising the health of the river in this location. Of these factors, lack of protective plants along the rivers edge, erosion of the stream bank and sediment deposition in the water effected the health of that section of river the most. Based on knowledge of stream condition in other areas, this is a common problem on the Cocheco. Recent studies have shown that valuable habitats and biological communities occur along the Cocheco River. Special protection measures will likely be required to safeguard these and surrounding areas of the river.

Riparian and Aquatic Wildlife Threat

Causes Sources

Wildlife Habitat fragmentation

Loss of riparian vegetation

Erosion of stream banks

Sedimentation

Development along transportation corridors

Conversion of forest lands to developed uses

Removal of buffers along headwater streams and the main stem of the river.

26

Solid Waste Dumping

The banks of the Cocheco have been a dumping place for some time. Historically, landfills were located along the river’s edge in Dover, Rochester, and Farmington and contributed to pollution of the river. All of these areas, except for the municipal landfill in Farmington, have now been closed. Dumping of household debris and other refuse along the Cocheco River corridor has also long been a problem. This is especially true in areas where stream banks are steep and the river is generally out of sight of everyday automobile and pedestrian traffic. CRWC has engaged citizens and towns in several cleanups since 1997, collecting a total of approximately 5,745 pounds of materials. This problem will continue to receive attention as part of restoration as it is a visible sign of stewardship of the river.

Solid Waste Impairment

Causes Sources

Wildlife Riparian habitat destruction Dumping of household debris on banks

Dumping of debris from businesses

Stormwater Runoff, Development and Impervious Surfaces

The population of the Cocheco River watershed is expected to increase by over 20% in the next 20 years. Populations are projected to increase by twelve percent (12%) in Dover and up to fifty-eight percent (58%) in New Durham from 2000 to 2020 (Fargo and Truslow, 2005). As development increases along the river, the amount of paved area and buildings covering the ground will increase correspondingly.

These hard surfaces where water cannot easily absorb into the ground are referred to as impervious surfaces. As impervious surface area increases, stream water quality and habitat impacts are observed (USGS, 2005). Impervious cover as little as seven percent (7%) can effect the quality of the receiving water and aquatic habitats (USGS, 2005).The EPA states that excessive polluted stormwater runoff is one of the most difficult impacts of urbanization to control and correct (EPA, 2005). And, DES lists stormwater as the State’s number one priority nonpoint source (NHDES, 1999).

Water quality impairments in the watershed do not explicitly mention stormwater as a source, however several of the sources for aquatic life and recreational use impairments are listed as “unknown.” There has not been a study or monitoring program done to measure the impacts of stormwater on the water or habitat quality in the watershed.

The subwatersheds have varying degrees of impervious cover. Fargo and Truslow(2005) state that the amount of developed land could double in the next twenty years. Development, particularly the creation of impervious surfaces, increases the rapidity with which precipitation or stormwater runs off developed areas. As impervious surfaces approach seven to fourteen percent coverage of these watersheds, water quality and habitat impacts are very likely (USGS, 2005).

Current stormwater pollutant load estimates for each subwatershed are listed below. Estimates were calculated based on the Simple Method (CWP, 2000). More information about how the pollutant loads were calculated is provided in Appendix B. The Simple

27

Method was used to calculate stormwater pollutant load estimates for bacteria, total suspended solids (TSS) and total phosphorus. The information needed to use the Simple Method includes subwatershed drainage area, impervious cover area, stormwater runoff pollutant concentration and annual precipitation. Pollutant loads are estimated as a product of annual runoff volume and pollutant concentration. In the Simple Method, the runoff coefficient is calculated based on the percentage of impervious cover in the subwatershed. As such, the subwatersheds with the higher percentage of impervious cover (Table 5a) yielded greater pollutant loads (Table 5b)

Table 5aImpervious Surfaces by Subwatershed

Land Use/Impervious cover % Upper

CochecoAxe

HandleMiddle

CochecoLower

IsinglassLower

CochecoTotal % used in pollutant load estimates 1.5% 1.0% 4.7 3.1 12

Table 5b Estimated Annual Bacterial, Total Suspended Solids and Phosphorus Load

Subwatershed Name

Area(Acres)

Estimated AnnualLoad of Bacteria

(billions of colonies)

Estimated Annual Load of TSS

(lbs)

Estimated Annual Load of

Phosphorus(lbs)

Upper Cocheco 27,616 141,415 20,319 108 Axe Handle Brook 7,396 37,045 5,242 25 Middle Cocheco 31,905 636,333 88,703 517 Lower Isinglass 14,593 250,120 34,280 147 Lower Cocheco 16,146 1,049,605 148,799 790

28

Figure 8 - Estimate of Pollutant Loading by Subwatershed

05000

100001500020000250003000035000

Upper

Coche

co

Axe H

andle

Brook

Middle

Coche

co

Lower

Ising

lass

Lower

Coche

co

Subwatershed

Ann

ual l

oad

of p

ollu

tant Area in Watershed

(Acres)

Estimated AnnualLoad of Bacteria(hundreds of billions ofcolonies)

Estimated Annual Load ofTotal Suspended Solids(tens of lbs)

Estimated Annual Load ofPhosphorus(lbs. X 10)

As shown in Figures 8 and Tables 5a and 5b, the Lower Cocheco subwatershed contributes the greatest pollutant load for all three parameters. In addition, the Lower Cocheco watershed area contributes almost double the load for bacteria and TSS when compared to the Middle Cocheco, the subwatershed with the next highest pollutant load. The percentage of impervious cover is estimated at 12% in the Lower Cocheco, which exceeds the percentage at which water quality impacts to streams are typically observed. The Middle Cocheco impervious cover percentage approaches the threshold range of 10% where research indicates that the most sensitive functional stream elements are lost from the system (USGS, 2005 and Zielinski, 2002).

The USEPA began to focus on stormwater pollution as part of the Federal Water Quality Act of 1987. In 2003, municipalities of a certain size (called MS4s) were required to address reduction of stormwater runoff and improvement of stormwater quality through innovative technologies and the involvement of local governments using land use controls. Both Rochester and Dover are considered MS4 communities by the USEPA, because they contain “urbanized areas” as defined by the U. S. Census Bureau in the 2000 census. Farmington is not considered an MS4 community and is therefore not required to initiate these activities by law at this time. Dover and Rochester are required to reduce the discharge of pollutants to the maximum extent practicable in the urban centers, protect water quality and meet the requirements of the Clean Water Act. This means that the best management practices used by the community must not create an impairment of use or further degrade an impaired waterbody.

The threats and suspected causes of some impairment in the watershed are shown in the table below. Both the quantity and quality of stormwater are issues for all subwatersheds.

29

The urban centers of Dover, Rochester and Farmington contribute stormwater loads to the river as well as the residential development that surrounds the urban centers and is scattered in the rural and suburban parts of the subwatersheds. Development on small, feeder streams can create stresses on the headwater streams in terms of water quantity by reducing infiltration of stormwater and subsequent recharge of these streams and quality by discharging untreated stormwater from hard surfaces.

Stormwater Discharge Threat

Causes Sources

Aquatic life Polluted stormwater and increased stormwater volume. Decreased base flows. Scouring and incision of streambed. Unstable banks.

Uncontrolled and untreated stormwater from development (existing and new).

Primary Contact Recreation

Elevated bacteria Untreated stormwater from development (existing and new.)


Elevated bacteria Same as above

Additional work will be required in the watershed to design low impact developments and stormwater systems and to retrofit systems for existing development. Low impact development (LID) methods and innovative stormwater treatment designs are being tested and implemented in this and other countries. The efforts within the Cocheco River watershed can incorporate good stormwater management practices, LID and other innovative practices in order to limit the impact of this growing source of pollution to surface water. In order to eliminate these nonpoint sources of pollutants, land use controls such as zoning ordinances, subdivision rules and regulations, and septic system regulations will need to be strengthened (EPA, 2002). Compliance with federal Phase II stormwater regulations will also require adoption of stormwater regulations to achieve compliance and promote low impact development.

30

Gaps in Water Quality DataAppendix A includes a table that lists the water quality of the assessment units in the subwatersheds summarized above. While this section describes the impaired waters and the causes for impairment, it is important to note that many waters have not been assessed by the State based on a lack of data or in the case of use by wildlife, a lack of an assessment method. For example, only four of the 21 AUs in the Lower Cocheco have been assessed for aquatic life use. This means that there is a large gap in our understanding of how healthy the river is in the subwatersheds, especially in terms of its ability to support aquatic organisms and other wildlife. The monitoring plan recommends new and enhanced environmental monitoring to fill data gaps with the goal of assessing all the waterbodies for the designated uses.

A complete list of the AUs and the associated impairments is located in the Cocheco River Watershed Environmental Quality Report (Fargo and Truslow, 2005), and in Appendix A of this report.

Commercial and Recreational Opportunities

Recreation and enjoyment of the river by residents and visitors has and will continue to help in restoration efforts. Recreation provides participants with the opportunity to view and understand the natural history and present conditions of the river, which may spur increased stewardship. Many already enjoy the river corridor and tributary streams for passive recreation including walking, skiing, skating, boating, and birdwatching. Future opportunities for increasing recreation could include making the river more accessible for recreation and for viewing.

Efforts to incorporate the river into commercial redevelopment plans include beautification of the urbanized sections of the river in Rochester and Dover and improvement and increase of access points to the river for fishing and enjoyment. With the increase in visibility brought about by Rochester and Dover riverwalks and increased interest in canoeing, kayaking and fishing along the Cocheco, public awareness should increase, but much work waits to be done.

31

Section 5 - Our Vision for Cocheco River

The Goals of Cocheco River Restoration

As part of the restoration planning process, interviews with citizens, officials and organizational leaders were conducted in order to establish an understanding of what local decision makers hoped for the future of the river. In addition, a restoration-planning group was formed to establish the goals, objectives and actions to be carried out as part of the Cocheco River Restoration project. The goals of the CRWC were used as a starting point for creating the goals for Cocheco River Restoration process (see Section 3 of this report). These goals were modified and supplemented to create the goals for restoration. The four goals established for restoration are:

o Public Perception and Education Goal - Change the negative public perception of and behavior toward the Cocheco River so that the assets and benefits of the Cocheco River can be realized.

o Water Quality Restoration Goal - Improve the water quality of the Cocheco River to meet New Hampshire Class B water quality standards by 2015.

o Habitat Improvement Goal - Understand and improve the instream and riparian habitat of the River to assure the ecological well being of the Cocheco River.

o Development and Stormwater Impact Goal - Minimize the impact of current and future development and infrastructure and associated stormwater impacts on the Cocheco River watershed.

What Does Watershed Restoration Mean?

Volunteer Sampling – Cocheco River

32

As reviewed in this report and the EQR, the landscape, settlement patterns and impacts on the Cocheco vary widely from the upper watershed to the Cocheco Falls in Dover. However, the benefit of restoration will effect all citizens who use and live within the watershed and those downstream of the study area.

How the watershed and river corridor will be restored depends on the current condition of the river in that segment, what is currently being done to improve conditions in that area, and the will of individuals and governments to effect positive change. Restoration will be based on an adaptive management model. As more is learned about the conditions along the river, restoration plans can be modified to suit those changing conditions. In addition, methods of treatment considered to be current today, will be replaced by new and improved methods in the future. This plan will be reviewed year to year in order to reflect these changes in understanding of the river and advances in pollution prevention and restoration.

There is still much to learn about the current conditions along the river and the impacts that existing settlement and development on these sections. For example, in the Upper Cocheco watershed, although lightly settled, development around Chalk Pond, Sunrise Lake and the streams that flow from these ponds will effect the health of these areas and downstream conditions as well. In the heavily settled areas of Farmington, Rochester and Dover, impacts include large areas of impervious surface and corresponding stormwater runoff, aging infrastructure and illicit sewer discharges and cross connections between storm sewers and sanitary sewers, loss of riparian buffers along tributary streams, and dumping of solid waste along the river’s edge.

Restoration activities could include:

Surveying streamside (riparian) buffer conditions and biological communities.

Detecting illicit sewer discharges and cross-connections

Retrofitting stormwater discharge areas with innovative stormwater pre-treatment systems

Encouraging the use of low impact development for new commercial, industrial, and residential development and re-development.

Evaluating the economic and cultural value of the river to the community.

Educating citizens about the Cocheco River and the benefits of river stewardship

Increasing water quality monitoring in upstream areas.

Re-designing monitoring programs to address specific problem areas.

Understanding effects of withdrawal from and discharge to the River for commercial and municipal purposes.

Developing demonstration areas for streamside buffers, snow dumping, stormwater management and educating citizens using these areas as a model.

Restoring stream buffer function, habitat and recreation areas along smaller urban streams and the river corridor.

33

Examples of Watershed Restoration

Watershed restoration is taking place worldwide as city and town planners and citizens are rediscovering the value and beauty of their local streams and rivers. Here in New Hampshire efforts are underway on Hodgson Brook, a highly altered and urbanized stream that flows to North Mill Pond, a tidal inlet, in Portsmouth. Small compared to the Cocheco River (only 3.2 square miles in total compared to the Cocheco’s 100 square miles), the stream faces similar challenges on a smaller scale. The restoration plan for this stream was completed in 2004 (Truslow, 2004). Through the help of the Local Advisory Committee and the DES, they hired a coordinator to manage and oversee restoration activities in that watershed. Some of the activities that they are currently undertaking include storm drain stenciling, water quality sampling, and working with business on the Pease Tradeport and in Portsmouth to incorporate low impact stormwater management and development methods.

On a scale similar to the Cocheco, the Big Rock Creek Watershed (67 square miles) located in Tennessee is impacted through much of its length by similar stressors. In this watershed, vegetation along stream banks is being created or re-established to prevent erosion and to establish an in-town greenway (CWP, 2003). This practice also provides valuable habitat for birds, invertebrates and small mammals.

The Rouge River in Michigan, which flows through Detroit, is another urban watershed that is being transformed. This river has been impacted by agricultural runoff, urbanization and intensive recreation. An ambitious program of investigation, retrofit demonstration areas, and outreach is effectively improving water quality, habitat and awareness of the impacts of intensive use on the river. A website has been developed by the Rouge River Project Team to help local communities along the Rouge understand the condition of the Rouge in their area and implement change along their reach of the river (www.rougeriver.com). The website lists a remarkable breadth of projects that have been completed to address the multiple impacts to the watershed. (Truslow, 2004)

Benefits to Citizens, Business and the Towns and Cities in the Watershed

There are numerous benefits to restoration of the Cocheco River. Throughout the planning process, key benefits were discussed. These benefits are listed below the associated goal developed for the restoration plan.

Public Perception and Education Goal

Citizens and municipal leaders will understand the value of the river and increase stewardship for and responsibility to the river.

Citizens and visitors will want to enjoy and use the river for recreation.

Restoration of the river will beautify downtown and neighborhood areas of Farmington, Rochester and Dover.

Restoration of the river will lead to establishment of entertainment, shopping, and dining areas along the restored river segments in urban areas

34

River restoration will increase property values.

River restoration will provide opportunities for river resource education.

Water Quality Goal

Improved water quality will allow for greater recreational opportunities including swimming, boating, and fishing. Decreased nutrients will reduce aquatic vegetation– this will improve the aesthetics of the river (sight, smell) and improve habitat for fish and other stream dwelling animals. Improved water quality upstream will result in cleaner water discharging to the tidal portion of the Cocheco and the Great Bay Estuary, therefore improving the water and habitat quality of the estuary.

Habitat Improvement Goal

Improved buffers along the river and its tributaries will improve river functions such as flood control and pollution attenuation.

Improved river habitat will allow anadromous fish such as brown trout, alewives, and eels, to establish breeding areas upstream of tidal dams.

Freshwater fish populations will increase and diversify with improved river habitat and water quality.

Natural communities will be re-established along the river.

Improved habitats will encourage recreational use of and respect for the river.

Development and Stormwater Impact Goal

Low impact development will decrease the cost of municipal public works, state and federal dollars needed to restore or maintain river quality.

Reduced impervious surfaces will allow for groundwater recharge to sustain aquifers in the watershed and groundwater flow that maintains river levels.

Reduced sediment and stormwater pollutants will prevent further degradation of water quality and habitat in the river.

Watershed Monitoring and the Watershed Restoration Plan

Monitoring of water quality has been ongoing for many decades. The CRWC took on increased monitoring responsibility with the assistance of DES in 1999. The results of this monitoring were summarized in the Cocheco EQR (Fargo and Truslow, 2005). Since publication of the EQR, CRWC has also undertaken biological monitoring of several segments of the River.

35

The revised program as described in the Cocheco River Watershed Monitoring Plan - 2006 and 2007 (Truslow & Fargo, 2006) will build on the monitoring framework that has already been established will include additional tasks as follows:

Acquiring additional sampling equipment for use by volunteers and staff.

Training more volunteers to assist with surveying and sampling.

Adding monitoring points on upstream reaches of the Upper Cocheco subwatershed in New Durham, Middleton and Farmington.

Adding monitoring points on tributary streams throughout the lower subwatersheds.

Modifying the monitoring program to identify contaminant sources along impacted sections of the river or tributaries.

Adding more biological monitoring on tributary streams and upper watershed areas.

Including biological monitoring in the annual monitoring program.

Surveying riparian and instream habitat.

Surveying solid waste along the main stem and major tributaries.

Tracking illicit discharges and cross connection identification and correction.

Documenting the effects of restoration activities.

Tracking progress of environmental cleanup at Superfund and CERCLIS sites.

The results of this improved monitoring program will help direct restoration activities and track the progress of restoration methods on the water quality and habitat of the river and its tributaries.

36

Section 6 - Cocheco River Watershed Goals, Objectives and Actions

The following section describes the four goals established for Cocheco River Restoration and the associated objectives and actions developed to address these goals. Detailed action plans are included in Appendix C and a matrix of actions is included in this section.

A timetable and partnership profile has been established for each action. Partnerships already established between CRWC, state and local agencies, and associated organizations will be essential in implementing these actions. Additional partnerships and cooperative ventures will be established, especially in the private sector in order to make these long lasting and effective changes. Details of restoration implementation are included in Section 7.

One of the most vigorously discussed issues in the planning process was the hope that this restoration program could change people’s minds about the Cocheco River. Planning participants believe that many people in the watershed think of the river as polluted and messy and have no wish to use it or spend time improving it. Participants also believed that there was not a public understanding of how valuable the river is and could be to the economy and the well being of the communities. Until this perception was changed, it would be difficult to implement effective and long lasting restoration. The objectives and actions for this goal stem from this enthusiasm to change people’s minds about the river.

Status of Public Perception and Education in the Watershed

The CRWC currently conducts tours of the river by canoe and kayak, distributes their river access guide, conducts riverside cleanups, and participates in many municipal events in an effort to spread the word about the value of the Cocheco River. In addition, the Strafford Rivers Conservancy, Moose Mountain Regional Greenways, Great Bay Coast Watch, and others have focused on protection of the river, emphasizing recreation and other benefits. Trout Unlimited and related groups also value the river for their activities.

Improvement along the river in Dover has been ongoing for over twenty years. This work includes the renovation and creation of the park at Pacific Mills and a portion of a riverwalk. It also includes establishment of the Cocheco Arts Festival that focuses on the riverside park in the downtown section of the river. Dover also created Henry Law Park and the covered footbridge below the lower dam in the downtown area to encourage more engagement with and appreciation of the river. A design charrette in 2005 projected additional improvements along the river downstream of the falls (CWDAC, 2005).

Public Perception and Education Goal

Change the negative public perception of and behavior toward the Cocheco River so that the assets and benefits of the Cocheco River can be realized.

37

Rochester created a park next to the river and the North Main Street Bridge and has attractively restored a former mill next to the river for senior housing. Rochester is also planning a riverwalk in the downtown (PlanNH, 2004) to bring the river into the commercial and social life of the city center.

Objectives

The public perception goal seeks to establish the values (both economic and natural) of the Cocheco, educate the public about these values and to involve them in restoration through programs and demonstrations sites. The objectives are as follows:

Proposed Actions

The actions developed by the restoration planning committee range from increasing and improving access points to the river, to starting a Cocheco Festival, to conducting an evaluation of the value of the river to the economy of the cities and towns that surround it. Thirteen action plans were developed to address the objectives listed above. Table 6 lists these actions and the detailed action plans are included in Appendix C.

Public Perception and Education Objectives

1. Improve public perception through increased access to the river for recreation and enjoyment.

2. Establish objective and subjective values for the river. 3. Use Rochester and Dover riverwalks to improve public perception of the river. 4. Work closely with regional, state, and national organizations and agencies on shared goals

and objectives. 5. Encourage public participation in all aspects of river restoration activities. 6. Demonstrate that the river is a sum of all the large and small streams that feed into the

Cocheco and that attention to all streams is important. 7. Conduct youth civic engagement activities focused on river restoration.

Table 6Matrix of Actions

Public Participation GoalCocheco River Restoration Project

Goal - Change the negative public perception of and behavior towards the Cocheco River so that the assets and benefits of the Cocehco River can be realized.

Public Perception Objectives

1. Improve public perception through increased access to the river for recreation and enjoyment2. Establish objective and subjective values for the river.3. Use Rochester and Dover riverwalks to improve public perception of the river in both urban and rural settings.4. Work closely with regional, state, and national organizations and agencies on shared goals and objectives5. Encourage public participation in all aspects of river restoration activities.6. Demonstrate that the river is a sum of all the large and small streams that feed into the Cocheco and that attention to all these streams is important.7. Conduct youth civic engagement activities focused on river restoration.

ActionNumber Description Area of Interest Related

Objective(s)Lead

Organization Communities OtherNear Term

- 1 to 3 Years

Mid Term 4 to 5 years

Long Term 6 to 10 years

PPE-1Increase the number of access

points for boating and recreation

All subwatersheds PP Objective 1 CRWC Upper, Middle and Lower Cocheco

NHFG, NHCP, user groups highest high priority

PPE-2 Establish an annual Cocheco River Festival day

Middle or Lower Cocheco

PP Objectives 1, 2, 3, & 5

CRWC, Chambers of Commerce, conservationcommissions

Rochester or Dover location and

all watershed communities

Cons.conservation,

businesses,volunteers,participants,

resource agencies. Organizations

highest - start small

festival

highest - grow festival high

PPE-3Determine the economic

benefit of an improved river corridor

All subwatersheds PP Objective 2 CRWCFarmington,

Rochester, Dover Econ. Dev. Dept.

SRPC, UNH, Chamber of Commerce

high high

PPE-4

Determine the economic impact of making the River a

NH River Protection and Management Program state

designated river.

All subwatersheds PP Objective 2 CRWCTown planning and

ConservationCommissions.

Chamber of Commerce, UNH,

Land trustspriority

PPE-5

Determine economic benefit of existing and potential sources

of water supply along the Cocheco River

All subwatersheds PP Objective 2 Farmington,Rochester, Dover All Communities NHDES, UNH, highest

PPE-6

Research stakeholder perception of the values of Cocheco River to help build

greater stewardship of the river.

All subwatersheds PP Objective 2 CRWC Cons. Com., planners

UNH, other University. high

PPE-7 Conduct Cocheco River Photo Contest All subwatersheds PP Objectives 1, 2,

& 5 CRWCbusinesses,volunteers,participants

highest

Table 6Matrix of Actions

Public Participation GoalCocheco River Restoration Project


Objective(s)Lead


- 1 to 3 Years



PPE-8

Provide promotional efforts at downtown riverwalks to

educate public about the Cocheco River

All subwatersheds PP Objective 3 & 6 CRWC Farmington,Rochester, Dover

UNHCE,Businesses,volunteers

highest highest highest

PPE-9 Post Cocheco River and tributary signs at road crossings All subwatersheds PP Objectives 4 & 5 CRWC Municipal Public

works departmentsNew Hampshire DOT, NHDES high

PPE-10

Publicize findings and successes of the Cocheco

River Restoration Program and regularly announce volunteer

opportunities.

All subwatersheds PP Objectives 1, 5, & 6 CRWC

Community and municipal

newsletters

Media outlets, Cable channel high high high

PPE-11Work with other watershed non-

governmental organizations (NGOs) on common goals.

All subwatersheds PP Objective 4 & 6 CRWC

Moose Mt Regional

Greenways,Strafford Rivers Conservancy,

others

high high high

PPE-12 Engage youth in river restoration All subwatersheds PP Objective 5&7 CRWC schools, after

school programs

Gulf of Maine Institute, 4-H, youth groups


PPE-13Develop outreach materials describing Cocheco River

Restoration and Monitoring All subwatersheds PP Objectives 1, 5,

& 6 CRWCMunicipal website

hosting and/or links

UNHCE, College interns,

businesses,volunteers

highest high high

40

Current Status of Cocheco River Water Quality

At the present time, many areas along the Cocheco River do not meet the Class B standards for water quality as defined by the State of New Hampshire. Class B waters meet the second highest water quality standard. When these standards are met the Cocheco will be considered acceptable for fishing, swimming, and other recreational activities, and suitable for water supply after adequate treatment (Env- Ws 1700 and RSA 485-A:8). Currently the levels of bacteria along certain segments of the Cocheco are considered unacceptable for primary contact recreation (primarily swimming) and in some areas even for secondary contact recreation (boating, fishing). Mercury levels detected in fish also cause fish consumption to be assessed as non-supporting according to state standards.

As reviewed in a previous section and described in the Cocheco EQR, bacteria, excess nutrients, depressed dissolved oxygen, metals and solid waste are impacting the quality of the water in the Cocheco River. Although many potential sources of pollution are suspected, these sources have not been conclusively identified. The modified monitoring plan will be an important first step in locating specific sources. Once identified the next step will be reducing or eliminating these sources of pollution. The actions described below will be employed to achieve the water quality goals and objectives.

Objectives

Water Quality Restoration Goal

Improve the water quality of the Cocheco River to meet New Hampshire Class B water quality standards by 2015.

Water Quality Restoration Objectives

1. Determine and minimize causes of dissolved oxygen and temperature fluctuations within the Cocheco River.

2. Understand and eliminate impact of failed septic systems and other bacterial loading on the Cocheco River.

3. Determine and work to reduce sources of elevated nutrients (phosphorus and nitrate) through modification of the sampling program.

4. Understand and reduce negative impact of stormwater discharge on the Cocheco River. 5. Determine sources and impacts of metals contamination in the Cocheco River Watershed

and work to minimize impacts. 6. Research impact of current and proposed stream flow withdrawals on Cocheco River

water quality. 7. Determine impacts of current and former land use on Cocheco River water quality and

work to reduce these impacts. 8. Complete water quality monitoring on all Cocheco River watershed assessment units.

41

The following table (Table 7) summarizes the water quality concerns by subwatershed, causes (where known) for these water quality impacts. The table also lists the objectives of the restoration and monitoring plan that relate to these water quality impairments. A more detailed description of water quality impacts is included in the Environmental Quality Report for the Cocheco River Watershed (Fargo & Truslow, 2005).

The water quality of the river is impacted by and impacts so many aspects of watershed health; it is difficult to apportion all relevant objectives and actions to one goal. The goals of Cocheco River restoration are interwoven by design. For instance, many of the Public Perception and Education goals will have a direct impact on water quality by involving the community in activities that will enhance their appreciation for the river. The Habitat Improvement objectives include improvement of the riparian buffer, for instance, which will positively impact water quality. The Development and Stormwater Impact objectives include reducing the volume and negative impact of stormwater runoff to the river to so that water quality can improve. In short, all positive changes effected by implementation of the plan will directly or indirectly improve conditions for water quality.

42

Table 7 – Summary of Cocheco River Water Quality Concerns

Upper Cocheco Subwatershed

Goal Indicators Causes or Source of Impact

RestorationObjectives

Meet New Hampshire Class B water quality standards by 2015.

Low pH. Low pH values caused by unknown source.

Determine and minimize causes of dissolved oxygen and temperature fluctuations within the Cocheco River.

Presence of variable milfoil

Nonnative aquatic vegetation in Sunrise Lake. Suspect transient boater(s).

Determine the distribution of nuisance aquatic and terrestrial species to evaluate the present condition of Cocheco River habitat

Bacteria concentrations

Failed septic systems

Understand and eliminate impact of failed septic systems and other bacterial loading on the Cocheco River.

Axe Handle Brook Subwatershed



pH Low pH values of caused by unknown source.



Bacteria concentrations Runoff from livestock operations

Understand and eliminate impact of livestock operation on Axe Handle Brook.

43

Table 7 continued– Summary of Cocheco River Water Quality Concerns

Middle Cocheco Subwatershed Goal Indicators Causes or Source of

ImpactRestorationObjectives


Phosphorus, pH and dissolved oxygen

Low pH and dissolved oxygen from landfill, treated sanitary wastewater effluent and septage lagoons.


Habitat and biological index measures

Degradation of instream habitat caused by poor riparian cover, bank instability and sedimentation

Identify sites along tributary streams and the River needing restoration, and restore and protect instream and riparian habitats and buffer areas.

Variable milfoil Nonnative aquatic vegetation in Cocheco River. Suspect transient boater(s).

Determine the distribution of nuisance aquatic and terrestrial species to evaluate the present condition of Cocheco River habitat.

Elevated bacteria concentrations caused by failed septic systems


Elevated bacteria concentrations caused by illicit discharges & possibly cross connections.

Understand and eliminate impact of illicit discharges and other bacterial loading on the Cocheco River.

Bacteria concentrations

Elevated bacteria caused by poor manure management practices.

Understand and eliminate impact of manure management on the Cocheco River.

44

Table 7 continued– Water Quality Summary – Cocheco River Subwatersheds

Lower Isinglass Subwatershed



Dissolved oxygen Low dissolved oxygen values caused by municipal point source.



Bacteria concentrations Unknown Identify and eliminate sources of bacterial loading on the Lower Isinglass and Cocheco Rivers.

Lower Cocheco Subwatershed



Dissolved oxygen Low pH values caused by municipal point source.

Determine and work to reduce sources of elevated nutrients (phosphorus and nitrate) through modification of the sampling program.


Bacteria concentrations Elevated bacteria concentrations caused by illicit discharges & possible cross connections.

Understand and eliminate illicit discharges on the Cocheco River.

Bacteria concentrations Elevated bacteria concentrations caused by failed septic systems.


Actions

Water Quality Restoration actions include modifying sampling programs to identify sources of dissolved oxygen impact, bacterial loading, increased metals, and nutrients that degrade aquatic and riparian habitats. Identification and correction of illicit discharges, failed septic systems and leaking or malfunctioning sanitary sewers are also included. Finally, cleanup of these sources and then monitoring the impacts of river restoration are part of the Water Quality Goal action plan. A total of 22 action plans were developed to address water quality concerns. The action plans are summarized in Table 8 and detailed action plans are found in Appendix C.

Table 8 -Matrix of Actions

Water Quality Restoration GoalCocheco River Restoration Project

Goal - Improve the water quality of the Cocheco River to meet New Hampshire Class B water quality standards by 2015.

Water Quality Restoration Objectives1. Determine and minimize causes of dissolved oxygen and temperatures fluctuations within the Cocheco River.2. Understand and eliminate impact of failed septic systems and other bacterial loading on the Cocheco River.3. Determine and work to reduce sources of elevated nutrients (phosphorus and nitrate) through modification of the sampling program.4. Understand and reduce negative impact of stormwater discharge on the Cocheco River.

5. Determine sources and impacts of metals contamination in the Cocheco River Watershed and work to minimize impacts. 6. Research impact of current and proposed stream flow withdrawals on Cocheco River water quality.7. Determine impacts of current and former land use on Cocheco River water quality and work to reduce these effects.8. Complete water quality monitoring on all Cocheco River watershed assessment units.

ActionNumber Description Area of Interest Related Objective(s) Lead

Organization Communities OtherNear Term -

1 to 3 Years



WQR-1

Modify sampling plan to better define and understand causes

of anamolous dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, and temperature fluctuations in the Cocheco

River Watershed

All Subwatersheds WQR Objective 1 CRWC All communities

VRAP, UNH, consultants,

WasteManagement,

riparianlandowners,volunteers

highest highest

WQR-2

Reduce sources of depressed dissolved oxygen, biological

oxygen demand, and temperature fluctuations.

All subwatersheds WQR Objective 1 NHDES, CRWC All CommunitiesResidents,

businesses.Industry

highest highest

WQR-3Modify bacterial sampling program to further identify

sources of bacterial loading

Upper, Middle and Lower Cocheco WQR Objective 2 CRWC

VRAP, UNH, consultants,volunteers

highest highest

WQR-4Evaluate extent of failed septic

systems in heavily settled areas.

Farmington,Rochester, Dover WQR Objective 2

Farmington,Rochester,

Dover

FarmingtonHealth Officer, Public Works

Residents,NHDES highest highest

WQR-5 Begin volunteer program to help identify illicit discharges.

Upper, Middle and Lower Cocheco WQR Objective 2 CRWC Public works

departmentsVolunteers,

NHDES high high

WQR-6

Evaluate and correct illicit discharges and cross

connections near Cocheco River and its tributaries.

Upper, Middle and Lower Cocheco WQR Objective 2 Public works

departments

Farmington,Rochester,

Dover

CRWC, NHDES, property owners high high

WQR-7Support efforts to replace failed

septic systems or extend town/city sewer services.


departments

NHEP, NHDES, Congressional

delegateshighest highest





1 to 3 Years



WQR-8

Conduct water quality monitoring to verify water

quality improvement in areas of septic system repair and illicit

discharge corrections.


departments

VRAP,volunteers,

NHDEShigh high

WQR-9

Review existing data to identify areas of elevated phosphorus

and nitrogen and modify sampling plan to assess

source areas.

Upper, Middle and Lower Cocheco WQR Objective 3 CRWC Municipalities VRAP, UNH,

consultants highest

WQR-10

Conduct a nutrient Total Maximum Daily Load allocation study above sampling point 12 CCH at Watson Road Bridge,

Dover

Lower Cocheco WQR Objectives 3 & 4 CRWC, NHDES Rochester,Dover UNH highest

WQR-11

Work with municipalities to rigorously apply use of Best Management Practices for

nutrients.

All subwatersheds WQR Objectives 3 & 4 CRWCLand Use

Boards, public works depts.

UNHCE,residents high high

WQR- 12

Analyze sampling data, identify existing impacts of stormwater runoff on Cocheco River water

quality

All Subwatersheds WQR Objective 4 CRWC Public works departments

VRAP,volunteers,

NHDEShigh

WQR-13

Educate municipalities and citizens about the impact of pet waste and yard waste on water

quality and work to reduce sources.

All subwatersheds WQR Objectives 2, 3 & 4 CRWC All

MunicipalitiesNHDES,

SRPC, UNHCE highest highest

WQR-14

Add regular metals analysis to sampling program to further

define occurrence and sources of elevated metals

Middle and Lower Cocheco WQR Objective 5 CRWC

Rochester and Farmington

WWTP

VRAP,volunteers,

NHDEShighest

WQR-15 Research permitted withdrawals from the river All subwatersheds WQR Objective 6 CRWC

Public works departments,

Cons.Commissions.

NHDES,consultants priority

WQR-16 Study Regional Options for Wastewater Discharge NA WQR Objectives 1, 2, 5 &

6 CRWC Public works departments

UNH, Great Bay Estuary

Commission,NHDES, NHCP

highest highest





1 to 3 Years



WQR-17

Look at WWTP discharge options to determine how these

plans will impact Cocheco River Water Quality.

Middle and Lower Cocheco and

Isinglass

WQR Objectives 1, 2, 5 & 6 CRWC Public works

departments UNH, NHDES high high high

WQR-18

Review Wastewater Treatment Plant permits and assist in

understanding overall impacts of discharge to the River.

Middle and Lower Cocheco

WQR Objectives 1, 3, 5 & 6 CRWC NHTAG NHDES, SRPC,

CRWC high high high

WQR-19

Modify sampling plan to track water quality changes in the vicinity of active and closed landfills along the Cocheco

River.


departments

VRAP, UNH, consultants,landowners,

NHTAG,NHDESWaste

ManagementDivision, EPA


WQR-20

Track progress of evaluation and development of active and closed landfills in Farmington,

Rochester and Dover.

Middle and Lower Cocheco WQR Objective 7 CRWC Public works

departments

NHDES,consultants,

NHTAG, EPAhighest highest highest

WQR-21

Work with City of Dover to track contaminant attenuation

feasibility study at Tolend Road landfill in Dover.

Lower Cocheco WQR Objective 7 CRWC City of Dover NHTAG,NHDES, EPA highest highest highest

WQR-22

Complete TMDL for dissolved oxygen in the Cocheco River in

Farmington and Rochester Upper and Mid Cocheco WQR Objective 1 NHDES Farmington and

Rochester EPA, CRWC high

WQR-23

Complete water quality assessment on all assessment units within the watershed so

that DES water quality attainment can be evaluated.

All Subwatersheds WQR Objective 8 CRWC All subwatershed communities DES, VRAP high high high

48

Current Status of Cocheco River Habitat Quality

The habitat in much of the Upper Cocheco watershed is intact and healthy. In the Middle and Lower Cocheco, areas between the towns and cities and along tributary streams are in satisfactory condition. However, fragmentation of land brought about by development of backland areas and along pond, stream and river shorelines and its associated stormwater and septic load strongly effects the quality of the land and stream habitats.

On a local level, CRWC has begun conducting biological inventories and assessments along several sections of the main stem of the Cocheco River (Chase, personal communication, 2005). The New Hampshire Nature Conservancy has also just conducted a study of several areas of the Lower Cocheco including the Blackwater Brook (NHNHI, 2004). Local land conservation organizations and open space committees are also busy prioritizing lands for conservation and putting lands into permanent protection. Stewardship of these lands is improving and protecting the habitats within their boundaries.

On a more regional level, the New Hampshire Estuaries Project is funding a remote sensing study of buffers within the estuarine watersheds, including the Cocheco River (NHEP, 2005). This information will be helpful in assessing buffer conditions and areas for action. New Hampshire Fish and Game Department has also recently conducted mapping of all the lands of the state to determine habitat quality and protection priorities (NHFG, 2003). They will soon be releasing a comprehensive report on wildlife habitat that can be used to guide stewardship and land protection.

ObjectivesMuch can be done on a local level to study and understand, and then work to protect and improve both upland and instream habitats. The objectives and actions described below address the areas that participants in this planning effort believed needed the most attention to best protect critical natural resources.

Habitat Improvement Goal

Understand and improve the instream and riparian habitat of the Cocheco River watershed to assure the ecological well being of the river.

Habitat Improvement Objectives

1. Conduct research on and conduct inventories of aquatic and terrestrial species and their habitat to evaluate the present condition of Cocheco River corridor.

2. Determine the distribution of nuisance aquatic and terrestrial species and habitat to evaluate the present condition of Cocheco River habitat.

3. Identify sites along tributary streams and the river needing restoration. 4. Restore and protect instream and riparian habitats and buffer areas. 5. Improve recreational value of river by increasing healthy fish populations.

49

Actions

The actions developed for Habitat Improvement include surveying the current habitat conditions, extent of nuisance and invasive species, research historic fish species, studying the impacts of dams and other obstructions to water flow, and improving the riparian corridor along the river. Twenty-three action plans were developed to improve instream and buffer habitat condition. These actions are listed in Table 9 and actions are described in Appendix C.

Table 9 - Matrix of ActionsHabitat and Wildlife Goal RestorationCocheco River Restoration Project

Goal - Understand and improve the instream and riparian habitat of the Cocheco River watershed to assure the ecological well being of the river.

Habitat Improvement Objectives1. Conduct research on and conduct inventories of aquatic and terrestrial species and their habitat to evaluate the present condition of Cocheco River corridor.2. Determine the distribution of nuisance aquatic and terrestrial species and habitat to evaluate the present condition of Cocheco River habitat.3. Identify sites along tributary streams and the river needing restoration.4. Restore and protect instream and riparian habitats and buffer areas.5. Improve recreational value of the river by increasing healthy fish populations.

`


Objective(s)Lead

Organization Communities Other Near Term - 1 to 3 Years



HI-1

Gather, analyze and report on completed habitat studies along the Cocheco River Corridor and tributaries

All subwatersheds HI Objective 1 CRWC All municipalitiesConservationOrganizations,

NHFGhigh

HI-2

Encourage communities to complete Natural Resource

Inventories (NRI's) and water resource chapters for master

plans

All subwatersheds HI Objective 1 PlanningDepartments

RochesterConservationCommission

Volunteers, NHFG, UNHCE, CRWC,

SRPChighest

HI-3

Work with New Hampshire Natural Heritage Inventory to

identify exemplary natural communities.

All subwatersheds HI Objective 1 NH Audubon ConservationCommissions

TNC, NHDES, CRWC high high

HI-4

Review collected data and determine additional areas that

need buffer and habitat surveys and complete surveys

as needed.

All subwatersheds HI Objective 1 CRWC ConservationCommissions

Conservationorganizations,UNHCE, UNH,

NHNHI

highest high

HI-5

Research and report on impacts and benefits of gravel pits, agricultural land and other

cultural open space in the riparian zone in the Cocheco

River corridor

Upper and Middle and lower Cocheco HI Objective 1 CRWC Municipal Planning

Departments

UNHCE,NHDES,UNH, SRPC, NHDept of Ag

high

HI-6

Establish chemical, physical, and biological monitoring stations to determine links

between biological and chemical changes along River

All subwatersheds HI Objective 2 CRWC ConservationCommissions NHDES, NHCP highest highest highest



Objective(s)Lead




HI-7Survey distribution and

determine causes of terrestrial and aquatic nuisance species.


Volunteers, NHFG, UNH, NHDES highest high high

HI-8

Determine cost and impact of nuisance aquatic species such as variable milfoil on Cocheco

River and habitat and water quality.

All subwatersheds HI Objective 2 CRWC, NHDES ConservationCommissions

Volunteers, NHFG, UNH high

HI-9Educate public about cause

and control of nuisance species.

All subwatersheds HI Objective 2 CRWC Municipalities NHDES highest highest highest

HI-10

Conduct a solid waste survey along the Cocheco River

corridor and tributaries with the assistance of neighbors and

volunteers

All subwatersheds HI Objective 3 CRWC Public Works departments

Volunteers,Residents, United

Wayhighest high high

HI-11Survey road crossings to

identify obstacles to stream flow and wildlife passage.

All subwatersheds HI Objective 3 CRWC Public works departments

NHDOT, UNH, NHFG, TNC high

HI-12

Understand the impact of dam operation and removal on

Cocheco River instream and riparian habitat.

All subwatersheds HI Objective 3 & 5 NHFG

Volunteers, NHFG, UNH, CRWC,

RPC, DES River Restoration

Program, NH DOT


HI-13Using collected riparian buffer data, determine priority buffer

restoration areas.All subwatersheds HI Objective 1 & 4 CRWC All municipalities

ConservationOrganizations,NHDES, NHEP

high high high

HI-14

Restore gravel pits to protect corridor and to keep new gravel pit habitat intact for

buffer integrity

Middle Cocheco, Lower Cocheco HI Objective 4 Conservation

CommissionsFarmington,

Rochester, Dover

CRWC, NHDES, ConservationOrganizations,

businesses

high high high

HI-15Establish additional osprey

platforms along the river corridor.

Middle Cocheco, Lower Cocheco HI Objective 4 NH Audubon Conservation

CommissionsCRWC, NHFG,

UNHCE highest

HI-16

Organize and carry out periodic solid waste cleanups along the river and its tributaries with the

help of neighbors and volunteers

All subwatersheds HI Objective 4 CRWC Public Works departments

Volunteers,Residents, United

Wayhighest highest highest



Objective(s)Lead




HI-17

Determine if Cocheco River is a 4th Order stream at Mad

River in order to increase the protection of the river through the State of New Hampshire

Shoreland Protection Act

Upper Cocheco HI Objective 4 CRWC Farmington UNH, NHDES highest

HI-18

Determine optimal width of protection corridor on Cocheco

River and tributaries to adequately protect wildlife and

habitat

All subwatersheds HI Objective 3Land Protection Organizations,

CRWCAll municipalities

NHDES, NH Audubon, TNC,

UNH Cooperative Extension

highest highest

HI-19Work to restore other areas

identified for buffer and habitat restoration


NHEP, NHCP, NHFG, UNHCE high high high

HI-20

Work with local land protection organizations to identify and

protect priority lands for habitat and river corridor protection.

All subwatersheds HI Objective 1 & 4 CRWC

Open Space Committees,ConservationCommissions

ConservationOrganizations high high high

HI-21Research historic fish species and their distribution within the

Cocheco River watershed.All subwatersheds HI Objective 5 NHFG CRWC, TU, UNH priority priority priority

HI-22Study impact of shallow

bedrock on riparian habitat at Whittier Falls in Dover

Lower Cocheco HI Objective 4 & 5 NHFG ConservationCommissions CRWC priority priority

HI-23

Work with NH Fish and Game and US Army Corps of Engineers to study and

improve fish habitat in flood control project in Farmington.

Upper Cocheco HI Objective 4 & 5 CRWC Farmington NHFG, USACoE high high high

HI-24Work with the City of Dover on

the Berry Brook restoration project.

Lower Cocheco HI Objective 4 & 5 DSI Objective 4 & 6 CRWC Dover

NHFG, UNHCE, riparian

landownershighest high high

HI-25Restore Willow (Wordley)

Brook in Rochester to natural stream functions

Middle Cocheco HI Objective 4 & 5DSI Objective 4 & 6 CRWC

Rochester Public Works Dept., Cons. Comm.

NRCS highest highest

HI-26Work with the Town of

Farmington to restore the Mad River at Tappan Street.

Upper Cocheco HI Objective 4 & 5DSI Objective 4 & 6 CRWC Farmington

NHFG, UNHCE, riparian

landowners, St.. Peter's Church,

NRCS

highest high high

53

Current Status of Development and Stormwater Impact Abatement

Land use boards, Strafford Regional Planning Commission and departments of public works in many of the towns and cities in the watershed are working to improve existing stormwater and development infrastructure and encourage development that protects streams and rivers. In some areas, old infrastructure is still impacting the Cocheco River negatively. Additionally current zoning ordinances and planning regulations in some municipalities do not adequately protect watershed functions.

Much effort will be made as part of this restoration effort to improve, recognize, and correct many of the existing impacts from point sources, landfills, and commercial and residential development and industrial activities. As part of this overall effort, CRWC and the planning participants also recognized the need to implement good planning techniques; install or retrofit infrastructure that will treat stormwater adequately; protect groundwater; and allow for healthy pond, wetland and stream buffers that will protect the quality of the Cocheco River.

Objectives

The following objectives and actions illustrate the primary concerns that affect the Cocheco.


Minimize the impact of current and future development on the Cocheco River and its tributaries.

Development and Stormwater Impact Goal Objectives

1. Improve planning design, and construction methods to reduce negative impacts on Cocheco River.

2. Improve enforcement of federal, state, and local regulations that improve or protect the quality of the Cocheco River.

3. Protect groundwater resources that provide public water supply and recharge tributaries and the Cocheco River.

4. Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future stormwater structures.

5. Determine the impact of road crossing design and maintenance on the water quality of the river and tributary streams.

6. Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use of demonstration sites and activities on the Cocheco River.

7. Study and eliminate obstacles to river flow and fish passage and wildlife travel at dams, bridges, culverts, and natural obstacles on main stem and tributaries to the Cocheco River.

54


Indicators Causes or Source of Impact


Bacteria and phosphorus pollutant loads

Bacteria and phosphorus levels increasing as development increases.

Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future stormwater structures.

Minimize the impact of current and future development on the Cocheco River and its tributaries.

Sediment loads Current stormwater treatment inadequate to protect water quality

Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future stormwater structures.

Actions

The actions relative to Development and Stormwater Impact reduction that planning participants felt were important included: educating the public and municipal officials about stormwater and land use Best Management Practices (BMP’s), developing a BMP manual for the Cocheco, evaluating road crossings for impediments to wildlife passage and negative stormwater impacts, passage of stronger stormwater management ordinances and regulations to lessen the impacts of impervious cover on the river, encouraging innovative stormwater treatment areas, and erecting a demonstration snow dump to reduce the impact of runoff to the Cocheco. Twenty-four action plans have been developed to address the development and stormwater impacts in the watershed. These actions are listed in Table 10 and are described in Appendix C.

Again, many of the objectives for the other three restoration goals also address lessening the impacts of development and stormwater runoff, through the actions developed for that goal. Ultimately, for the restoration to have a lasting impact, public perception of the river will need to be positively altered, habitats will need study, improvement, or restoration, and stormwater impacts will need to be reduced. Finally, water quality sampling will document if these changes improve the quality of water so that Class B water quality can be attained along each reach of the tributaries and main stem of the Cocheco River.

Table 10 -Matrix of ActionsDevelopment and Stormwater Impact Goal

Cocheco River Restoration Project

Goal - Minimize the impact of stormwater and current and future development on the Cocheco River and its tributaries.

Development and Stormwater Impact Goal Objectives1. Improve planning design, and construction methods to reduce negative impacts on Cocheco River.2. Improve enforcement of federal, state, and local regulations that improve or protect the quality of the Cocheco River.3. Protect groundwater resources that provide public water supply and recharge tributaries and the Cocheco River.4. Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future stormwater structures.5. Determine the impact of road crossing design and maintenance on the water quality of the River and tributary streams.

6. Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use of demonstration sites and activities on the Cocheco River.7. Study and eliminate obstacles to river flow and fish passage and wildlife travel at dams, bridges, culverts, and natural obstacles on main stem and tributaries to the Coche


Objective(s)Lead


- 1 to 3 Years


LongTerm 6 to 10 years

DSI-1Reduce or minimize

proliferation of impervious surfaces.

Allsubwatersheds

DSI Objectives 1 & 6 Municipalities All Municipalities

NHDES,SRPC, NHEP,

UNHCE,CRWC


DSI-2 Promote minimum impact developments.

Allsubwatersheds

DSI Objectives 1, 2, & 6 Municipalities All Municipalities

NHDES,SRPC, UNH,

UNHCE,CRWC


DSI-3Erect a demonstration snow

dump to reduce impact of this runoff to the Cocheco River.

Middle Cocheco DSI Objectives 1 & 4

RochesterPublic Works Rochester

NHDES,NHDOT,CRWC

highest highest

DSI-4Assist municipalities in carrying out stormwater management

plans.

Upper, Middle and Lower Cocheco

DSI Objectives 1, 2, & 5 NHDES

Dover and Rochester Public

worksdepartments

UNHCE,Seacoast

StormwaterCoalition.CRWC


DSI-5

Develop Cocheco River Watershed Stormwater Best

Management Practices Handbook

Allsubwatersheds

DSI Objectives 1, 4, & 6 CRWC

Public works departments,

Cons.Commissions.

NHDES,NHEP, NHCP,

UNHCEhighest highest highest

DSI-6Educate public about

stormwater Best Management Practices.

All subwatersheds DSI Objective 4 CRWC, NHDES

Public works departments and

Cons.Commissions.

UNHCE high high high

DSI-7

Work with citizens and municipalities to reduce

shoreline protection violations and stream bank modification

Allsubwatersheds

DSI Objectives 2 & 6 NHDES

Cons. Commissions.,All communities

CRWC high high high




Objective(s)Lead


- 1 to 3 Years



DSI-8

Work to make the Cocheco River a state designated river

under the New Hampshire Rivers Management and

Protection Program

Allsubwatersheds DSI Objectives 6 CRWC

All Communities, Cons.

Commissions.NHDES priority

DSI-9Promote protection of

groundwater resources in Cocheco Watershed

All subwatersheds DSI Objectives 3 & 6

CRWC, land protection

organizations

Public works departments

Conservationcommissions,open space committees,

NHDES


DSI-10

Identify and correct flawed or outdated stormwater

infrastructure along Cocheco River.

Allsubwatersheds

DSI Objectives 1, 4, & 6

WatershedPublic Works Departments

primarilyRochester,Farmington,

Dover

NHDES,NHDOT,CRWC

highest highest

DSI-11

Encourage and sponsor innovative stormwater

treatment demonstration projects.

Allsubwatersheds

DSI Objectives 1, 4, 6 CRWC Public works

departments

UNH, NHDES, UNHCE,NRCS,NHDOT


DSI-12

Evaluate road crossings and lessen stormwater impairment

at these Cocheco River discharge points.

Allsubwatersheds

DSI Objectives 1,4,6 CRWC Public works

departmentsNHDOT, UNH,

NRCS high high

DSI-13

Educate department of public works managers and road crews on impacts of road

treatment and construction on river and tributaries in the

watershed

Allsubwatersheds

DSI Objectives 1 & 6

UNHStormwater

Center

Public works departments

NHDOT,UNHCE,NHDES,CRWC

highest highest

DSI-14 Establish a riparian buffer demonstration site(s) To be determined DSI Objective 6 CRWC Chosen

municipality

Citizens,riparian

landowners,volunteers

highest

DSI-15

Prepare and provide citizen/municipal training

programs at riparian demonstration sites

Upper, Middle and Lower Cocheco

DSI Objective 6 CRWC, NHDES All Communities

Volunteers,Residents,

riparianlandowners


DSI-16

Work with Municipalities toimplement Best Management

Practices along riparian corridors.

Allsubwatersheds

DSI Objective 1 & 6 CRWC, NHDES Public works

departments Citizens, high




Objective(s)Lead


- 1 to 3 Years



DSI-17

Educate citizens, riparian landowners and municipalities

about the value of riparian buffers and best management practices for streamside use.

Allsubwatersheds DSI Objective 6 CRWC Public works

departments

NH Audubon, CooperativeExtension,

NHDES


DSI-18Correct erosion at Cocheco

Rd. Bridge Crossing of Cocheco, Farmington & restore

the canoe landing

Upper Cocheco DSI Objective 1PPE Objective 1 CRWC Town of

FarmingtonBoy Scouts,

NRCS highest

DSI-19Improve stormwater drainage

from River Street in Rochester at City Dam


City of Rochester.

Rochester Public Works Dept. NRCS highest

DSI-20 Improve stormwater drainage at Catherine Street, Rochester Middle Cocheco DSI Objectives 1

& 4 City of Roch. Rochester Public Works Dept. NRCS highest

DSI -21 Restore sewer easement crossing of Hurd Brook Middle Cocheco DSI Objective 5

PPE Objective 7 CRWC Rochester Public Works Dept. NRCS highest

DSI-22

Establish sand removal management from bridges in

Farmington at Cocheco Road , old Bridge by RT 11 on Mad

River and River Street Bridge on Mad River

Upper Cocheco DSI Objective 4 Town of Farmington

FarmingtonPublic Works

Dept.highest

DSI-23Remove accumulation of yard

waste at Dewey Street footbridge and restore river

bank, Rochester


Rochester Public Works Dept. Cons. Comm.

NRCS highest

DSI-24

Develop and implement municipal stormwater

ordinances and regulations that protect the river and its tributaries from additional

pollutant loads and degradation.

Allsubwatersheds

DSI Objectives1 & 4 Municipalities Land Use

Boards

SRPC, DES, UNH

StormwaterCenter

highest high high

58

Section 7 - Restoration Implementation

The success of this restoration plan will be based on the acceptance, endorsement, and commitment of the citizens and leaders in watershed communities to implement the actions. The CRWC has spearheaded river stewardship since 1998, initiated this study, and will continue to provide the advocacy required to make Cocheco River restoration a success.

Introduction

The restoration planning committee identified over eighty actions to achieve the four goals with their supporting objectives. These detailed action plans are included in Appendix C. After this lengthy planning process, CRWC members also developed a plan for implementation of the Cocheco River watershed restoration. It is presented below.

A coalition is defined as: Individuals or organizations working together in a common effort for a common purpose to make more effective and efficient uses of resources.

Up to the present, the CRWC provided leadership, spearheaded river stewardship and raised awareness of environmental quality throughout the watershed communities. Many people and organizations supported the CRWC programs. In fact, the choice to name the organization a coalition was made with the foresight that many partnerships would be necessary to accomplish our mutual goals. CRWC has worked well with partners – communities, municipalities, other organizations, state and federal agencies and individuals – to accomplish the work done so far. Still others have worked independently for years, actively restoring the river, and we salute their efforts.

The restoration plan includes a broad spectrum of proposed actions. Some actions will require a large amount of coordination and resources and others will be simple to plan and execute. Some of the proposed actions are already underway and some will take place several years into the future. Some actions will require many hours of volunteer time and others will require large capital outlays and professional expertise. Some actions are broadly stated and others are well defined and site specific.

Completion of the action plans will require participation of many professionals and volunteers, interest groups, municipal staff and officials, businesses, and government agencies. It is the intent of the CRWC that others will implement many of the actions, independently or in partnership with CRWC. Some actions can be accomplished in a cooperative effort and the CRWC can provide coordination and networking support.Reaching out to residents and users of the watershed – to recruit participation, to build widespread knowledge and develop new attitudes and behaviors – is an important component of the plan as is celebration of completion and success.

Most importantly, the plan is a fluid document. As preliminary actions are completed and more is known about watershed conditions, the plan will be reviewed and modified accordingly.

59

The Cocheco River Watershed Coalition Structure

Governance The present structure of the CRWC was chosen in the organization’s infancy. As currently structured, officers and a small executive committee operate under bylaws written at our founding. The goals then established continue to guide the activities of the CRWC and are compatible with the goals of the Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Cocheco River. The capacity of the CRWC in its present structure, however, is insufficient for the ambitious new objectives and actions set forth in this plan. Changes to the governing structure of the CRWC are needed in order to implement the actions in the restoration plan. Grant funding has paid for coordination of grant project-related activity, but tasks related to management of the organization have required many volunteer hours. As grant funded activities grow in number and complexity, there is growing need for supplemental management of the organizational functions of the CRWC.

The CRWC governing body will continue to be responsible for maintaining the organization, drawing resources to the activities of the organization, representing the organization to others, and planning and oversight of the activities of the organization. Apreliminary self-assessment of the CRWC identified the following needed changes:

1. Strengthen governance, perhaps in the form of a Board of Directors with rotating terms to replace the Executive Committee, and increase the number of directors.2. Encourage official representation from all watershed communities and other interest groups. 3. Establish standing committees with specified tasks and responsibilities. 4. Apply for and maintain IRS 501 (c)(3) status for fundraising. 5. Improve fiscal planning and accountability. 6. Foster better communication with partners. 7. Expand the organization’s membership base. 8. Secure support for maintaining tasks such as newsletters and record keeping. 9. Secure funding for liability insurance renewal. 10. Establish regularly scheduled meetings for the governing body.

Resources needed to accomplish the changes listed above vary from technical expertise for filing the IRS forms, professional advice, improved media presentation of the CRWC plans and accomplishments and funding. The restoration actions can be effectively carried out with an expanded organizational capacity and additional funding and expertise.

A Private/ Public model. The CRWC currently operates in a private/public model. A professional project coordinator is housed at the Strafford County UNH Cooperative Extension (UNH-SCCE) office at the Strafford County Complex in Dover. UNH-SCCE staff participates in educational programming for the CRWC and provides office space and limited office staff support for the Coordinator at no cost to the CRWC. No salary is provided to the Coordinator by UNH-SCCE. All salary funds are garnered through competitive grant funds that are applied for through the CRWC and written by the Project Coordinator.

60

The CRWC goals and objectives mesh well with those of UNH-SCCE and the benefits of the collaboration have been reciprocal. The arrangement has been secured by mutual agreement on an informal basis and the relationship with a Watershed Coordinator is expected to continue in that manner.

The activities of the CRWC have been supported, in large part, with technical assistance and funding from state and federal agencies. The DES, the NH Coastal Program, and NH Estuaries Project have supported the CRWC since its inception. At the federal level, both USEPA and NOAA have funded our activities. USDA, through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is currently supporting restoration activities and the US Department of the Interior (USDI) Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is funding a conservation and recreation project in the watershed. Municipalities have generously contributed in-kind services or completed projects within municipal budgets, and have applied for and been awarded various grants to conduct remediation work. River restoration has and will continue to have direct public benefit and should continue to be supported through these programs. Partnerships with the public sector will be an important component of implementation of the plan.

From the private sector, volunteers have contributed hundreds of hours of planning, monitoring, cleanups, stream assessments and education. While contributions from the business and industrial sector have been generously given, full partnership needs still to be developed as a source of support for restoration.

Recommended Structure for Watershed Restoration Implementation

The current Executive Committee structure will shift to a larger Board of Directors structure. Current committee members and officers will re-write the bylaws to accommodate a new and expanded structure in an effort to widen the geographical participation (representatives from all watershed towns) and include various interests such as land use planners, land protection advocates and wildlife stewards. The revised bylaws will also include provisions for hiring and managing staff and administering funds. The bylaws need to reflect an expanded capacity for the CRWC and the potentially greater responsibilities of the Directors and Officers.

Cocheco River Watershed Coalition Board of Directors

The Board of Directors will have a minimum of 12 directors and a maximum of 15 directors. Representatives from each community in the five subwatersheds represented in this Plan are required and representatives from the other subwatershed towns are strongly encouraged to serve on the Board. This means that representatives from New Durham, Middleton, Milton, Farmington, Rochester, Dover, and Somersworth are required. Other board representation must include the business community, the media, and a regional planning entity.

61

Bylaws will be revised and approved by the Executive Committee by (May 31, 2006). The new Board of Directors will meet by (July 31, 2006).

As part of the planning process, CRWC determined that a Watershed Coordinator (Coordinator) will be needed to implement the plan and that the Coordinator will be guided by a CRWC Board of Directors. In order to support the Coordinator’s capacity to accomplish implementation, a part-time administrative assistant and bookkeeper will also be hired. It was further determined that a Restoration Technical Advisory Committee (RTAC), described below, will work with the Coordinator implement actions. RTAC members will work within their own organizations/resources/constituencies to advocate for and provide assistance for completion of Cocheco River restoration actions.

The Board will develop policies, hire the Coordinator, review the work of the Coordinator, and set and revise priorities as needed. The CRWC Board will serve as the fiscal agent for the program funds and will oversee the activities of the Coordinator and RTAC. A member of the Board will be a liaison between the Board and the RTAC and will attend all RTAC meetings.

Cocheco River Watershed Coordinator

The Coordinator will be a part time employee of the Cocheco River Watershed Coalition. The Coordinator will be housed at the Strafford County UNH Cooperative Extension office at the Strafford County Complex at their discretion. The position will be renewed on a two-year basis as long as funding is available. The Coordinator will spend approximately 20 hours per week working on the Cocheco River restoration program. Funding for the Coordinator position will be for implementation of the actions and organization tasks directly related to restoration implementation and monitoring activities. The CRWC Board may also choose to utilize the Coordinator for other activities at the additional expense of that organization. An understanding about the role of the Board Chair in direction and supervision of the Coordinator will be established prior to hiring the Coordinator for the position. The role of the Board will be established in the revised bylaws. The hiring committee will consist of two CRWC Board members, one DES staff person, and one UNH-SCCE staff person.

Responsibilities/Job Description: The Cocheco Watershed Coordinator will implement the Watershed Restoration/Implementation and Monitoring Plans with technical assistance from the RTAC and guidance from the Board of Directors. In particular, the Coordinator will carry out the following duties:

1. Work to carry out the mission of the CRWC and develop long term financial and community support for restoration and monitoring activities, 2. Implement the restoration actions and monitoring activities, 3. Promote environmental stewardship within the watershed to the residential and business community; and 4. Report regularly to the community and the Board on the progress of the restoration program.

62

Required Skills: The Coordinator will have a master’s degree in environmental science, biological science, environmental engineering, natural resources, natural resource administration and/or management, community development or related field with a minimum of five years of experience in environmental work. The Coordinator will possess excellent project management and public speaking skills, and will be able to work effectively with both individuals and groups. Grant writing skills will also be necessary. The Coordinator will have computer skills necessary for the work to be performed. Strong attention to detail and the ability to maintain organized and accurate records is required. The Coordinator should be able to take on a broad range of responsibilities in the office and field. Familiarity with the local landscape and regulatory environment will be important. Media relations experience is also necessary.

Work Tasks For the first two years, the Coordinator will build working partnerships, oversee the environmental monitoring activities, implement outreach and education programs, coordinate implementation of actions designated as the near term and highest priority, and plan for years three and four of restoration. The tasks to be completed over the first two years include:

1. Establish the Restoration Technical Advisory Committee (RTAC) with the assistance of the CRWC Board and DES staff. 2. Work with the Board of Directors to establish a strategic plan for long-term administrative and financial support for the restoration, implementation and monitoring activities.3. Establish or reconfirm partnerships with watershed stakeholders to promote awareness of the Cocheco River, generate matching funds and services for actions, and recruit volunteers to assist with project activities.4. Conduct administrative tasks, including project budgeting, accurate record keeping, writing project reports and researching and writing grants to secure near term and long-term funding. 5. Conduct outreach and education efforts to promote awareness of the river, including conducting public programs, attending meetings, working with the media, and developing outreach materials. 6. Implement monitoring activities, including recruiting and working with volunteers to collect stream samples and perform field testing, and otherwise implementing the monitoring plan, as well as creating a method for tracking and reporting on progress and communicating environmental changes to the community and interested stakeholders. 7. Implement near term action plans.

63

Administrative Support

Part time administrative support for the restoration program will be needed in order for the Coordinator to effectively carry out implementation of the plan. A bookkeeper will be subcontracted to create and maintain financial records, work the Board and Coordinator to track budget status and develop financial reports. The Board may also subcontract for part-time clerical assistance for communications, taking and preparing meeting minutes, and other administrative tasks as suggested by the Coordinator or Board. The Board will be responsible for setting policy and contracting with the administrative staff.

Restoration Technical Advisory Committee

Responsibilities: The RTAC will provide technical assistance to the Coordinator and will suggest funding opportunities for restoration implementation. RTAC members will also serve on sub-committees as needed to guide the restoration program.

The CRWC will serve as the fiscal agent for the program funds and the CRWC Board will oversee the activities of the Coordinator and RTAC.

Implementation of some restoration actions may be passed from RTAC to CRWC standing committees by mutual consent and approval of the Board. For instance development of river access may be referred to the Trails and Access Committee and the Membership Committee may manage solicitation for volunteers.

Representation: The RTAC will be made up of official representatives of both cities in the watershed, Dover and Rochester. Official representatives will also be sought from two smaller towns in the watershed at a minimum, from DES, and other state and federal government agencies. In addition, representatives from a county or regional UNH Cooperative Extension or UNH representative, local non-profits, business and industry, and other citizen and technical advisors will be sought as appropriate. The size of the RTAC will be between seven and thirteen members.

Selection and service: The CRWC Board of Directors, DES and the Coordinator will invite the founding RTAC members. Its members will serve for the first three years of the restoration implementation. They will be chosen specifically to assist with those actions prioritized and scheduled for the near term. As actions are completed and as technical assistance needs evolve over time, RTAC membership will change appropriately. After the first advisory committee is established, the CRWC Board will approve, by majority, additional members as needed.

Partnerships

Implementation of the action plans in the Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Cocheco River will be accomplished through cooperative efforts of the Board, the Coordinator and the RTAC. The RTAC will include broad stakeholder and agency representation, however cooperation with other organizations and agencies

64

outside the RTAC will be essential to successful implementation. These groups may provide funding and technical assistance and will offer credibility to the program through their participation. Therefore, a great deal of emphasis will be placed on forming and maintaining partnerships with these groups and individuals. The Coordinator will have primary responsibility for developing and maintaining these partnerships.

Identifying partners Once the RTAC is established and the Coordinator is in place, they will work to identify project partners and their roles. These partners will be contacted and a summary of restoration actions and their potential role in the project will be provided for them. Regular communication with those partners will be maintained and brought into the restoration process as appropriate.

Primary Partners

Primary partners are those who have an integral role in the completion of restoration activities. Many of these partners have already participated in activities of the CRWC and the restoration planning process. The primary partners for implementing restoration are the residents and business leaders of the watershed, CRWC, Town of Farmington, City of Rochester, City of Dover, UNH-SCCE, DES, NHCP, UNH, NRCS, GoMI. The USEPA is a key partner and contributed to the planning process through technical and financial assistance. NOAA is also a key partner in the technical and financial support of CRWC water monitoring activities through the NHCP. Other primary partners may be added during the course of restoration. The role of some primary partners is described below.

Residents Residents of the Cocheco River watershed will serve as volunteers in water quality monitoring and other activities and will attend educational presentations. They will also be involved in educating neighbors and community officials on the importance of the Cocheco River.

Businesses Business leaders in the watershed will provide opportunities for employees to volunteer for Cocheco River activities such as water monitoring and surveys. They will also contribute through professional services and in-kind and cash donations.

Cocheco River Watershed Coalition CRWC will provide the administrative framework and management for the Coordinator and the RTAC. CRWC will be responsible for grant administration and progress reporting throughout the first two years of the implementation plan. They will also provide assistance to the Coordinator and RTAC as needed on outreach and education activities.

Strafford County UNH Cooperative Extension UNH-SCCE will provide office space and staff support for the Coordinator. Educators and specialists will provide educational programming and serve as a link to the resources of the University of New Hampshire.

University of New Hampshire Professors, researchers and students of UNH will provide technical assistance on water quality and natural resource issues, and restoration techniques.

65

Watershed Communities The City of Rochester will continue its partnership with the CRWC. The Public Works Department has secured funding for implementation of restoration activities for the river and tributary streams flowing through the City. The Public Works Department will continue to provide bacteria testing in its WWTP laboratory and to support river cleanup activities. The planning and economic development department and the conservation commission and the River Walk Committee are also contributing to river restoration efforts.

The City of Dover continues to work on river restoration through its planning, conservation commission, open space, waterfront and environmental services departments and committees. Stormwater structure and treatment improvements are both in progress and proposed. The City of Dover is a primary partner in the Targeted Watershed Grant proposal being developed for certain actions.

The Town of Farmington is actively seeking solutions to environmental problems and preparing for anticipated population growth. Current partnerships between the Town of Farmington and CRWC include the restoration of the Mad River and access to the river for recreational use and monitoring.

New Hampshire Coastal Program NHCP will provide guidance and information for restoration and outreach activities. They may also provide technical support for the monitoring program and opportunities for funding.

USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service NRCS will provide technical assistance, oversight and financial support to restoration activities in Rochester using the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP). They will provide oversight to the Mad River stormwater project in Farmington and technical assistance to the Strafford County Complex trail and tree house project in Dover.

Gulf of Maine Institute GOMI will provide guidance to youth participation in restoration activities and offer opportunities for participation of watershed youth in GOMI regional and international activities.

New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services DES will provide technical assistance for watershed management, water quality monitoring, and other surveys. They will also continue to provide financial support through USEPA programs for restoration activities.

Secondary Partners

Secondary partner organizations and agencies will be identified by the Coordinator and CRWC and brought onto the committee as needed. Some of these partners may assume Primary Partner role as work proceeds. Some secondary partners could include the Isinglass River Local Advisory Committee, NH Fish and Game Department, New Hampshire Estuaries Project, Strafford Rivers Conservancy, Moose Mountain Regional Greenways, smaller watershed communities, NH Technical Assistance Group (EPA TAG group), and business organizations.

66

Public Participation

Information and education activities are a primary component of implementation. The Coordinator will partner with other organizations such as Great Bay Coast Watch, Strafford Rivers Conservancy, Moose Mountain Regional Greenways and service clubs, newspapers and cable television. The primary messages for the first two years of implementation include the promotion and celebration of the river and its resources as a community asset, the benefits of using individual and community best management practices, benefits of minimizing stormwater impacts and how citizens can make a difference through involvement in streamside cleanups and water quality monitoring.

Restoration goals and current projects will be promoted through newsletter articles, press releases, presentations, displays, brochures, and a Cocheco River Restoration website.

The methods for involving the community and conveying these messages include participation in the following:

o Water quality monitoring, bio-monitoring, trash surveys and cleanups o Photo contests o River fest activities o Canoe trips and other outings o Developing access points to the river and streams o Youth GOMI Teams in watershed communities

Implementing the Restoration and Monitoring Plans

As part of the CRWC planning process, participants ranked the restoration actions in preparation for implementation of these actions. The ranked action plans and the monitoring plan will help guide the work of the Coordinator and the RTAC. The ranked actions are included on Tables 6, 8, 9 & 10. These tables include the name and number of each action, the priority ranking (Highest, High, and Priority), and the timeframe for completion (near-, mid- and long-term) and the type of action (regulatory, research, infrastructure, and voluntary). The action plans are described in a summarized fashion in the tables. The detailed action plans are included in Appendix C.

The RTAC will have three levels and schedules for planning – a two year strategic planning cycle, an annual work plan/success measurement cycle and a quarterly review cycle. Each planning review cycle is described below.

Two year Strategic Planning

The initial meeting between the Board and the Coordinator will be spent developing a two-year strategic plan based on the prioritized actions and the goals of the monitoring plan. Overall, a three-year schedule for strategic planning is proposed to correspond with the priority rankings developed by the CRWC for restoration. Near-term, mid-term and long-term were assumed to be in three-year increments. This strategic plan will be revisited and revised every two years.

67

Annual Work Plan Development

The Coordinator will prepare annual work plans based on the prioritized actions and the monitoring plan activities. The work plan will be reviewed, modified as needed, and then approved by the CRWC Board.

The annual work plan describes the actions to be funded and implemented for the year, the tasks involved in implementing those actions, the schedule for implementing the tasks and the source of funding for implementation for each action. The detailed action plans included will be used as a guide for developing work tasks.

Tracking System and Reviews The Board will meet quarterly to review progress of the annual work plan. The Coordinator will work with the Board to develop a tracking system for the reviews and update the tracking program in preparation for quarterly meetings. The Board will have final responsibility for ensuring that action plans are implemented properly and according to the long-range schedule.

Action Plan Implementation The detailed action plans provide a framework for implementation and provide the suggested involvement level of the various stakeholders (regulatory, research, infrastructure and voluntary).

During the last stages of the restoration planning process, CRWC ranked the actions into Highest, High, and Priority levels as shown in Tables 6, 8, 9 & 10. During the course of implementation, the highest priority actions will take precedence. However, if an opportunity exists for implementing a lower priority action, the merits of implementation will be judged and included if the Board agrees.

Tasks to be completed – Years One and Two Implementation of years one and two actions will include a mix of ongoing activities, actions coordinated by the CRWC that are already underway, actions already being implemented by partners, and new actions. These actions are listed in Tables 11a and 11b.

There are several ongoing actions in watershed communities. The City of Rochester is implementing an eight-year project funded by NRCS, which meets CRWC objectives. CRWC may have a role in the project depending on the tasks proposed from year to year. The City of Dover is developing a restoration project on Berry Brook. This project meets Cocheco River restoration objectives and has high potential for CRWC involvement. Additionally, a cooperative stormwater management project in Farmington is being coordinated by CRWC with DES funding.

Water quality monitoring funds have been applied for through NHCP. CRWC is also working with the UNH Stormwater Center Staff on a USEPA Targeted Watershed Grant project. Several other projects with this group are also anticipated. These efforts will need ongoing support from the Watershed Coordinator as they proceed.

Tables 11a and 11b present the tasks proposed and the proposed budgets and the amount of professional coordination necessary to implement years one and two of the restoration plan.

Table 11a - Cocheco River Watershed Restoration PlanYear One Tasks

Action # Project Description

Organizations or communities

involved in the TaskFunding

committed? Grant Funds Match Total Cost Other resources

needed

PPE-1Cocheco Trail and Tree House Strafford County Yes 100,000.00$ 100,000.00$ $ 200,000.00

LCWF,UNH-SCCE,SNHRCD

PPE-2 Conduct River Fest CRWC No 3,000.00$ 3,000.00$ $ 6,000.00 communities,volunteers, business

PPE-7Conduct Photo Contest CRWC No 300.00$ 300.00$ $ 600.00

Venue, sponsors, prizes, volunteers

WQR-13Plan then educate about Pet/Yard waste

CRWC, NHCP, municipalities 500.00$ 500.00$ $ 1,000.00 Volunteers

DSI-2

Educate about minimum impact developments CRWC, SRPC 250.00$ 250.00$ $ 500.00 Volunteers

DSI-10

Survey and correct flawed stormwater infrastructure

CRWC, UNH Stormwater Center 3,000.00$ 3,000.00$ $ 6,000.00 Volunteers

DSI-5 Educate about BMPs CRWC 500.00$ 500.00$ $ 1,000.00 Volunteers

HI-2 Collect NRI's CRWCVolunteer, NROC, community officials

WQR-16Regional wastewater, track and participate

CRWC,Municipalities, Public Volunteers

HI-12Track Gonic dam removal CRWC Volunteers

HI-15Erect Osprey platforms CRWC

Ext., Thompson School, ASNH, PSNH

HI-17

Investigate fourth order stream possibility CRWC, NHDES Volunteers

LWCF funded

DES Grant Request






needed

PPE-12 Youth education4-H, GOMI, CRWC,

UNH-SCCE 4,000.00$ 4,000.00$ $ 8,000.00 CRWC, GOMI Guide Team, Communities

WQR-1DO, pH, BOD Monitoring

CRWC,NHCP,NHDES, Roch. WWTF, NHEP Applied for 11,250.00$ 11,250.00$ $ 22,500.00 VRAP

WQR-3 Bacterial Monitoring CRWC Part of WQR-

1 total VRAP

WQR-9 Nutrient monitoringCRWC, NHCP,

NHDESPart of WQR-

1 total VRAP

WQR-14 Metals monitoring CRWC, DES,NHCPPart of WQR-

1 total VRAP

WQR-23 Monitor all Aus CRWC, DES,NHCPPart of WQR-

1 total

HI-6 BiomonitoringCRWC, NHCP,

NHDESPart of WQR-

1 total VBAP

WQR-4Survey failed septic systems Farmington, NHDES Applied for

DSI-18

Restore river bank and canoe landing dump road

Town of Farmington, NRCS

Volunteers, DPW, Scouts, CRWC

HI-26

Farmington habitat and stormwater restoration

CRWC, Town of Farmington, St. Peters Church, NRCS, NHDES Yes 17,700.00$ 11,800.00$

Volunteers.Contributions

DSI-22Sand removal from bridges

Town of Farmington, NHDES Town budget

WQR-20Track landfill closure and cleanups NHTAG Volunteers

NHCP Grant Request

Town of Farmington Projects

NHTAG Funding






needed

WQR-21Track Tolend Landfill cleanup NHTAG Yes 20,000.00$ 20,000.00$ $ 40,000.00

Volunteers, EPA, Dover,consultants

HI-7Survey nuisance species & remove Rochester DPW Yes 1,500.00$ 500.00$ $ 2,000.00

NRCS,Weedwatchers

HI-13 Buffer restoration Rochester DPW Yes 4,650.00$ 1,550.00$ $ 6,200.00 NRCS

DSI-4

Work with City with stormwatermanagement Rochester DPW Yes 18,750.00$ 6,750.00$ $ 25,000.00 NRCS

HI-10 Solid waste survey Rochester DPW Yes Part of DSI-4

total NRCS

HI-11

Remove obstacles to flow, Wyandotte Falls to Rt.125 Rochester DPW Yes

Part of DSI-4 total NRCS

DSI-23Restore Dewey St riverbank Rochester DPW Yes


DSI-21Restore Hurd Brook crossing Rochester DPW Yes


HI-16Riverside trash cleanup Rochester DPW Yes


DSI-20

Catherine St. stormwater structure improvement Rochester DPW Yes 75,000.00$ 25,000.00$ $ 100,000.00 NRCS

DSI-19River St. drainage improvement Rochester DPW yes City budget

PPE-8 River Walk Education Rochester Yes $ 50,000.00 RW Committee

DSI-1Impervious surface education

CRWC, UNH Stormwater Center Volunteers

DSI-25Berry Brook restoration

Dover Planning Department, CRWC yes $ 150,000.00 City budget

Other Funding Sources

City of Rochester Projects

Table 11b - Cocheco River Watershed Restoration PlanYear Two Tasks

Action # Action/project

Organizations or Communities

Involved in the Task

FundingCommitted

? Grant

funding Match Total cost Other resources needed

PPE-1 Canoe landing on riverwalk Rochester No Volunteers, design, materials

PPE-2 River Fest expanded CRWC No $ 2,000.00 4,000.00$ $ 6,000.00 volunteers, communities, donations

PPE-7 Photo Contest continued No $ 200.00 400.00$ $ 600.00 volunteers, sponsors, prizes, venue

WQR-13 Pet/yard waste ativities continued CRWC, communities No $ 500.00 $500 $ 1,000.00 Volunteers

DSI-5Develop BMP handbook and publish

CRWC, UNH Stormwater Center No $ 3,000.00 3,000.00$ $ 6,000.00 Seek funding for publication

HI-17 4th order stream if appropriate CRWC, NHDES No volunteersHI-4 Planning of buffer/habitat surveys CRWC No EXT, NHFG, volunteers

WQR-4Failed septic systems in other areas

WatershedCommunities No

Volunteers, comunities, GBCW, NHDES

PPE-12 GoMI, youth civic engagement CRWC No $ 3,000.00 3,000.00$ $ 6,000.00 GoMI Guide team

WQR-1DO, pH, BOD, continued from Year One, data analysis, reporting CRWC No $ 11,250.00 11,250.00$ $ 22,500.00 NHDES, NHCP, volunteers

WQR-3 Monitor bacteria, new areas CRWC No Part of WQR-1

total NHDES, NHCP, volunteers

WQR-9Monitoring nutrients analysis, report CRWC No

Part of WQR-1 total Volunteers, GBCW, communities

WQR-14 Metals sampling CRWC No Part of WQR-1

total NHDES, NHCP, communities

HI-6 Biomonitoring continue CRWC No Part of WQR-1

total volunteers, NHDES, NHCP

WQR-19 Data to track landfills NHTAG yes Remaining

NHTAG balance EPA TAG grant, volunteers, consultants

WQR-20 Track landfills NHTAG yes Remaining


LWCF funded

DES Grant Request

Monitoring Grant Request

NHTAG Funding

Table 11b - Cocheco River Watershed Restoration PlanYear Two Tasks

Action # Action/project

Organizations or Communities

Involved in the Task

FundingCommitted

? Grant

funding Match Total cost Other resources needed

WQR-21 Track Tolend landfill NHTAG, Dover yes Remaining


HI-7 Nuisance species surveys Rochester DPW yes $ 1,500.00 500.00$ $ 2,000.00 NRCSHI-13 Buffer restoration Rochester DPW yes $ 4,650.00 1,550.00$ $ 6,200.00 NRCSDSI-4 City Stormwater management Rochester DPW yes $ 18,750.00 6,750.00$ $ 25,000.00 NRCSHI-10 Solid waste survey Rochester DPW yes included above NRCSHI-16 River cleanup Rochester DPW yes included above NRCS

HI-15 Erect osprey platform CRWC yesEXT, Thompson School;,ASNH, PSNH

DSI-1 Educ. Activity, Impervious surfacesCRWC, UNH

Stormwater Center No Targ. Watershed Grant appl.

DSI-2Educ. Activity, min. impact development

CRWC, UNH Stormwater Center No Targ. Watershed Grant appl.

DSI-3 Snow dump innovation

CRWC, UNH Stormwater Center,

Rochester DPW No Targ. Watershed Grant appl.

DSI-10ID restoration sites, stormwater infrastructure

CRWC, UNH Stormwater Center No $ 5,000.00 5,000.00$ Targ. Watershed Grant appl.

DSI-11Stormwater treatment demonstration projects

CRWC, UNH Stormwater Center No Targ. Watershed Grant appl.

DSI-17Educate about riparian buffers, Berry Brook

CRWC, UNH Stormwater Center,

Dover, EXT, NHDES No Targ. Watershed Grant appl.

DSI-25 Berry Brook Restoration, continue

Dover Env., CRWC, UNH Stormwater

Center No Targ. Watershed Grant appl.

PPE-12 GoMI Summer institute CRWC, GoMI No $ 20,000.00 GOMI, Teams, international support

Other Funding Sources

Targeted Watershed Grant

CRWC Coordination Only

Rochester/NRCS

73

Funding for the first two years of plan implementation will be requested through the DES Watershed Restoration Grant Program. The specific tasks included in the grant request include the following:

1. Hiring a Watershed Coordinator and forming the RTAC. 2. Recruiting, training, and managing volunteers to participate in restoration activities, including monitoring and trash cleanups. 3. Participating in water quality monitoring as described in the monitoring plan. 4. Planning and execution of an annual Photo Contest and River Fest. 5. Providing education on watershed issues.6. Erecting two osprey platforms. 7. Providing two canoe trips for community officials. 8. Identifying and correcting flawed stormwater infrastructure. 9. Identifying and pursuing other funding opportunities. 10. Promoting the restoration plan through media relations, development of outreach and education programs and materials, and public participation. 11. Building and strengthening partnerships for restoration implementation.

Funding for the Restoration Program

The funding for restoration will come from a variety of sources. The primary funding vehicle will be the DES Watershed Restoration Grant Program. This is a federally funded program, therefore a 40% match is required as part of the grant agreement. The coordinator will track the match including in-kind contributions. Matching funds will be generated through donation of rental space, meeting space, professional services and volunteer time.

Cost Estimates A cost estimate for the first two years of the program has been developed and is summarized in Table 12. The total project cost for the first two years is estimated at $164,250. The focus of the first two years will be environmental monitoring, outreach and education, stormwater management education and restoration, buffer restoration and solid waste cleanup, and securing funding for years three through nine.

74

Table 12 Estimated Budget for Plan Implementation – Years One and Two

Budget Item Match ($) Grant Funds ($) Salary, Office & Advisory costs $ 52,167.00 $ 89,800.00 Environmental Monitoring $ 11,250.00 $ 11,250.00 Outreach and Education $ 10,700.00 $ 12,500.00 Stormwater Management Education and Restoration $ 3,000.00 $ 3,000.00 Buffer restoration and solid waste cleanup $ 1,750.00 $ 1,750.00 Totals $ 78,867.00 $ 78,867.00

Total Year One and Year Two Costs $ 197,167.00 Notes:Watershed Coordinator will work half time for two years. A part time administrative assistant and book keeper will be hiredOffice support will be provided by UNH-SCCEDES Grant request for monitoring for year two only. Year one monitoring from other fundsOutreach and education is for River Fest, photo contest, GOMI Stormwater request is for education and BMP handbookBuffer restoration is pet and yard waste impact reduction

Strategy Implementation will depend on building a strong volunteer base with strong public participation in order to change attitudes and behaviors towards the river. The implementation of the restoration activities will be coordinated with the ongoing efforts of watershed communities to upgrade stormwater systems and to address stormwater runoff. Implementation will be coordinated with the goals of the DES, NHCP, NHEP, and NRCS as the water quality and habitat improvement activities on the Cocheco will have a direct positive impact on the Great Bay Estuary.

Budget Management The administration of grant funding for years one and two for the Coordinator position and restoration activities will be the responsibility of the CRWC. The CRWC will provide all grant reports to the DES for periodic payment as specified in the watershed grant and all other funding sources. The Coordinator will provide preliminary reporting and documentation to the CRWC as needed. The Coordinator will also be responsible for tracking all in-kind and cash match amounts as part of quarterly budget tracking and submitting reimbursement requests to DES for payment. The budget will be tracked quarterly and provided to the CRWC for review.

Additional Funding Sources An important function of the Board and RTAC is identifying additional sources of funding for the restoration program. This may include foundation grants, fundraising and procurement of in-kind services to assist the Coordinator in implementation. The Coordinator will also bring potential funding sources to the attention of the Board on a regular basis.

75

Watershed Monitoring Plan Coordination and Evaluation

The Cocheco River Watershed Monitoring Plan - 2006 and 2007 was developed to fill the data gaps identified in the Cocheco River Watershed Environmental Quality Reportand to monitor the long-term success of the restoration program. The monitoring plan includes water quality monitoring, bio-monitoring, trash surveys, illicit discharge identification, and several special studies. The monitoring results will be used to assess the change in the quality of the Cocheco River. Every two years, DES will determine if the designated uses for the Cocheco River are being met based on the water quality data and information collected through the monitoring activities. The three uses that will be measured initially are Primary Contact Recreation, Secondary Contact Recreation and Aquatic Life.

The CRWC will continue to participate in the DES Volunteer River Assessment Program (VRAP) and this program will serve as the backbone of the monitoring efforts. The water quality data collected by volunteer monitors are used by DES to assess the status of the designated uses. Additionally, biomonitoring of macroinvertebrate species will augment the aquatic life use assessment. Trash surveys and illicit discharge surveys will identify specific sites in the watershed that need remediation such as debris removal and illicit discharge fixes, respectively.

Evaluating Success

The success of the implementation program will be measured in a variety of ways. The four goals of the Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Cocheco River have numerous objectives. Each objective has a long-term target and a tool or method for measuring the progress toward the target. Progress toward the water quality restoration goal and objectives will be measured through field monitoring and various programmatic indicators as described in the Cocheco River Watershed Monitoring Plan - 2006 and 2007. The other three goals (Public Perception and Education, Habitat Improvement, and Development and Stormwater Impacts) will be measured using various surveys and outcomes. Appendix D lists the long-term targets and tools to meet each objective.

The success of implementation will be evaluated on an annual basis. The Coordinator will summarize the accomplishments of the program for the year according to the established goals and objectives. The CRWC board will then assess the percent completion of the various objectives developed for each goal as part of the restoration plan. This will be accomplished using the long-term targets listed in Appendix D. The Primary Partners will be invited to provide comments for the evaluation process and attend the evaluation session. This evaluation will serve several purposes. The list below describes some benefits of this evaluation process.

o It will demonstrate to the Board, the Coordinator and RTAC where programs have been successful and where improvements can be made.

o It will allow the Coordinator to suggest a re-prioritization of actions, if needed.o It will demonstrate to the watershed communities, the value of the restoration

program and how it has improved the quality of the Cocheco River Watershed. o It will demonstrate to the DES and the USEPA, the value of the project and will

provide substantiation for future funding.

76

Glossary of Acronyms Organizations or Programs included within Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Cocheco River

Abbreviation Organization Name ASNH Audubon Society of New Hampshire BMP Best Management Practices CRWC Cocheco River Watershed Coalition DPW Departments of Public Works GoMI Gulf of Maine Institute GPCF Greater Piscataqua Community Foundation LWCF Land and Water Conservation Fund (a part of the US Department of the Interior) NH Dept of Ag New Hampshire Department of Agriculture

NHCP New Hampshire Coastal Program NHDES or DES New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services

NHDOT New Hampshire Department of Transportation NHDRED New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development

NHEP New Hampshire Estuaries Project NHFG New Hampshire Fish and Game Department NHNHI New Hampshire Natural Heritage Institute (a division of NHDRED)

NHTAG New Hampshire Technical Assistance Group NRCS Natural Resource Conservation Service (a division of the US Dept of Agriculture)

NRI Natural Resource Inventory NROC Natural Resources Outreach Coalition PSNH Public Service Company of New Hampshire SNHRCD Southern New Hampshire Resource and Conservation District SRC Strafford Rivers Conservancy SRPC Strafford Regional Planning Commission TNC The Nature Conservancy TU Trout Unlimited UNH University of New Hampshire - Durham, NH UNHCE University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension UNHT2 University of New Hampshire Technology Transfer Center USACoE United States Army Corps of Engineers USEPA United States Environmental Protection Agency VBAP Volunteer Biological Assessment Program VRAP Volunteer River Assessment Program

77

ReferencesBlack, Donald C., Forestry Educator, Strafford County -University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension, personal communication, 2005.

Center for Watershed Protection (CWP). 2000. The Simple Method to Calculate Urban Stormwater Loads. Stormwater Manager's Resource Center (SMRC) Website www.stormwatercenter.net. Center for Watershed Protection, Inc., Ellicott City, MD.

Center for Watershed Protection (CWP), 2003. Big Rock Creek Watershed, Final Management Plan. Completed for The Nature Conservancy, Tennessee.

Chase, Loretta, Personal Communication, 2005.

Fargo, Thomas and Danna Truslow, 2005. Cocheco River Watershed Environmental Quality Report. Prepared for Cocheco River Watershed Coalition, February 2005.

Hull, Rueben, Factory Revealed. Presentation to Town of Dover, 1997.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Glossary of Hydrologic Terms, www.srh.noaa.gov/fwr/resources/glossary.

New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES). 1997. Stormwater Characterization Study. New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, Concord, New Hampshire. Report # NHDES-WD-97-12.

New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES). 1999. New Hampshire Nonpoint Source Management Plan. New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, Concord, New Hampshire. Report # NHDES-WD-99-7.

New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES). 2004. 2004 New Hampshire Consolidated Assessment and Listing Methodology. Concord, New Hampshire.

New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development (NHDRED), Natural Heritage Inventory, 2005, Ecological Inventory of the Cocheco River Watershed (Dover) and the Follet’s Brook Watershed (Durham, Newmarket, and Lee), The Nature Conservancy, NH Natural Heritage Bureau, DRED and the New Hampshire Audubon Society.

New Hampshire Estuaries Project (NHEP). 2004. Impervious Surfaces and Water Resource Maps for Dover, Rochester, Farmington, Middleton, and New Durham.

New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (NHFG), 2006. New Hampshire Wildlife Action Plan.

78

PlanNH, 2004, A Design Charette for Rochester Riverwalk, Rochester, NH.

The Rouge River Project, www.rougeriver.com.

Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests (SPNHF), 2005.

Thompson, Mary P, Landmarks in Ancient Dover. 1892.

Truslow, Danna B. Restoration Plan for Hodgson Brook Watershed, Portsmouth, NH, May 2004.

Truslow, Danna B and Thomas R. Fargo Cocheco River Watershed Monitoring Plan– 2006 and 2007. Cocheco River Watershed Coalition, Dover, NH, June 2006.

United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2002. Tools for Watershed Protection. A workshop for local governments. Boston, MA. Sponsored by the Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds. US Environmental Protection Agency. Washington, D.C.

United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2005. Estimating and Projecting Impervious Cover in the Southeastern United States. URL: http://www.epa.gov/nerl/research/2004/g4-23.html

United States Geological Survey (USGS). 2005. Effects of Urbanization on Stream quality at Selected Sites in the Seacoast Region in New Hampshire, 2001-03. Scientific Investigations Report 2005-5103. U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey, Reston, Virginia.

Zielinski, Jennifer. 2002. Watershed Vulnerability Analysis. Center for Watershed Protection. Ellicott, Maryland.

Appendices


Prepared for

Cocheco River Watershed Coalition Dover, NH

Prepared by

Danna B. Truslow D.B. Truslow Associates

Rye, NH 03870

June 2006

This report was funded in part by a grant from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services as authorized by the US Environmental Protection Agency pursuant to Section 319 of the Clean Water Act.

Appendix A Cocheco River Watershed Assessment Units,

Designated Uses and Impairments

Appendix A. Assessment Units, Designated Uses and Impairments

Assessment Unit Designated Use Is the Use Supported? Cause of Impairment

Aquatic Life

Not Supporting for five assessment units Fully Supporting for noneNot assessed eight assessment units Insufficient Information six assessment units

Low pH for four AUs Non-native aquatic plants present in one AU


Not Supporting for two assessment units Fully Supporting for two assessment units Not assessed for ten assessment units Insufficient information for five assessment units

Elevated E.coli (bacteria)


Not Supporting for zero assessment units Fully Supporting for four assessment units Not assessed for ten assessment units Insufficient information for five assessment units

--

Upper Cocheco (19 assessment units)

Fish Consumption Not Supporting for all nineteen assessment units

Mercury in fish tissue

Aquatic Life

Not Supporting for two assessment units Fully Supporting for zero assessment units Not assessed for six assessment units Insufficient information for one assessment unit

Low pH

Axe Handle Brook (9 assessment units)


Not Supporting for one assessment units Fully Supporting for one assessment units Not assessed for six assessment units Insufficient information for one assessment unit

Elevated E. coli (bacteria)



Not Supporting for one assessment unit Fully Supporting for zero assessment units Not assessed for six assessment units Insufficient information for two assessment units


Fish Consumption Not Supporting for all nine assessment units Mercury in fish tissue

Drinking Water After Adequate Treatment

Fully Supporting for the one assessment unit that was assessed (Rochester Reservoir)

--

Aquatic Life

Not Supporting for six assessment units Fully Supporting for zero assessment units Not assessed for seven assessment units Insufficient information for zero assessment units

Elevated Al, low DO, low pH, Benthic macroinvertebrates monitoring results, Bioassessment and Habitat survey results, presence of nonnative aquatic plants


Not Supporting for four assessment units Fully Supporting for one assessment units Not assessed for seven assessment units Insufficient information for one assessment units



Not Supporting for one assessment units Fully Supporting for four assessment units Not assessed for seven assessment units Insufficient information for one assessment unit


Middle Cocheco (13 assessment units)

Fish Consumption Not Supporting Mercury in fish tissue


Aquatic Life

Not Supporting for one assessment unit Fully Supporting for zero assessment units Not assessed for four assessment units Insufficient information for one assessment unit

Low dissolved oxygen


Not Supporting for one assessment unit Fully Supporting for one assessment unit Not assessed for four assessment units Insufficient information for zero assessment units



Not Supporting for zero assessment units Fully Supporting for two assessment units Not assessed for five assessment units Insufficient information for zero assessment units

--

Lower Isinglass (6 assessment units)


Aquatic Life

Not Supporting for four assessment units Fully Supporting for zero assessment units Not assessed for seventeen assessment unitsInsufficient information for zero assessment units

Low pH

Lower Cocheco (21 assessment units)


Not Supporting for two assessment units Fully Supporting for three assessment units Not assessed for sixteen assessment units Insufficient information for zero assessment units




Not Supporting for zero assessment units Fully Supporting for four assessment units Not assessed for seventeen assessment unitsInsufficient information for zero assessment units

--

Lower Cocheco Continued


Appendix B Calculation of Bacterial, Nutrient and Sediment

Loading for Cocheco River Subwatersheds

Description of Pollutant Load Estimate Calculations

Pollutant load estimates were calculated using the Simple Method (CWP, 2000) for each of the five subwatersheds. The estimated pollutant loads allowed for comparisons of the relative differences in stormwater pollutant load for phosphorus, bacteria and total suspended solids (TSS) among the subwatersheds. This calculation requires a minimal amount of information, which was easily accessible for the Cocheco River subwatersheds. The subwatershed drainage area numbers were provided by the Department of Environmental Services using GIS-based data in NH GRANIT (State GIS portal) as well as the impervious cover data. The Simple Method allows for the use of local, regional or national data sources for stormwater pollutant concentrations. The total phosphorus, bacteria (E. coli), and TSS concentrations were based on the average concentrations for urban (high intensity residential) and residential (low intensity residential) sites reported from a Concord, New Hampshire stormwater characterization study (NHDES, 1997). The annual precipitation of 40.15 inches was reported in Fargo (2002).

The calculation for TSS and annual total phosphorus load is

L = 0.226 R C A

Where: L = Annual load (lbs) R = Annual runoff (inches) C = Pollutant concentration (mg/l) A = Area (acres) 0.226 = Unit conversion factor

The calculation for annual bacteria loads is

L = 1.03 10-3 R C A

Where: L = Annual load (Billion Colonies) R = Annual runoff (inches) C = Bacteria concentration (#/100 ml) A = Area (acres) 1.03 10-3 = Unit conversion factor

Pollutant concentrations from NHDES (1997) and the Simple Method default values that were used in these calculations are shown in the table below. Pollutants/landuse types

LowIntensityResidential

HighIntensityResidential

Commercial/ Industrial/ Transportation (used Simple Method average defaults for commercial, industrial and roadway)

TSS (mg/l) 28 58 115 Total Phosphorus (mg/l)

0.15 1.08 0.36

Bacteria (E. coli)(#/100 ml)

3997 6563 20,000

Appendix C Detailed Action Plans for Cocheco River Watershed

Restoration

Public Participation and Education Action Plans

Action Plan PPE-1

Associated Goal: Public Perception and Education Goal

Associated Objective: Improve public perception through increased access to the river for recreation/enjoyment

Steps Needed to Complete the Action:

1. Identify current points of access to river and the ownership, description, and condition of each access. Identify needed improvements to allow for appropriate access by the public.

2. Work with the owners and the community to improve access points as needed.

3. Locate other areas of public ownership and right of ways, and plan for new access for a variety of uses as environmentally appropriate.

4. Work with communities, NHFG and user groups to establish new access points.

5. Update public access guide with the help of communities, user groups (such as Trout Unlimited), and NHFG

6. Plan activities to introduce new access to public, including stewardship and educational opportunities.

Potential Partners: CRWC, communities, NHFG, user groups

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): All subwatersheds

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): $5,000 for publications. Volunteers. Unknown costs for establishing new access points.

Expected Benefits: Increased recreational opportunities, appreciation of the river, familiarity with water resources

Timetable: Near to Mid term

Title of Action: Increase the number of access points for boating and recreation

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory x Research x Infrastructure Change x Voluntary

Action Plan PPE-2


Associated Objectives:Improve public perception through increased access to the river for recreation and

enjoyment Establish objective and subjective values of the river. Use Rochester and Dover riverwalks to improve public perception of the river in both

urban and rural settings. Encourage public participation in all aspects of river restoration activities.


1. Form committee and plan event. 2. Seek funds, cooperation and participation of multiple and varied interests in the

river, watershed communities and state environmental organizations and agencies. 3. Obtain permission and cooperation from municipality. 4. Promote event. 5. Organize and hold event. 6. Evaluate and make changes/improvements as necessary.

Potential Partners: CRWC, businesses, natural resource agencies, communities, civic organizations, sportsmen, recreational interests, schools.

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Downtown Dover or Rochester

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Business and community support, GPCF, other grant funding sources.

Expected Benefits: Public participation and education.

Timetable: Near to Long Term

Action Plan PPE-5 Action Plan PPE-3

Title of Action Establish an annual Cocheco River Festival day.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory Research Infrastructure Change x Voluntary

Action Plan PPE-3


Associated Objective: Establish objective and subjective values of the river.


1. Contact UNH or Antioch New England Graduate School natural resources and/or

resource economic departments for interested faculty and graduate students.

2. Foster research of economic benefits.

3. Publish white paper including ecological, economic, aesthetic, recreational, and

existence values.

4. Provide information to media, communities, and business organizations. Use

information to improve proposals to funding agencies and foundations.

Potential Partners: CRWC, universities, communities

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): All subwatersheds.

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): GPCF grant, NHEP, NHCP possible sources of funding

Expected Benefits: Changed public and business perception towards the river.


Contingencies: Volunteer, university resources availability.

Title of Action: Determine the economic benefit of an improved river corridor.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory x Research Infrastructure Change x Voluntary

Action Plan PPE-4


Associated Objective: Establish objective and subjective values of the River.


1. Contact UNH or Antioch New England Graduate School natural resources and/or

resource economic departments for interested faculty and graduate students.

2. Support and foster research of economic benefits.

3. Publish white paper on the subject.

4. Provide information to media, communities, and business organizations.

5. Discuss next steps with the Cocheco River Watershed Coalition board and

membership.

Potential Partners: CRWC, universities, communities


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Greater Piscataqua Community Foundation (GPCF) grant, NHEP, NHCP are possible sources of funding

Expected Benefits: Changed public and business perception towards the river. Associated benefits of NH Rivers Protection and Management Program.

Timetable: Long term

Contingencies: Volunteer, university resources availability. Completion of other valuations of the river.

Title of Action: Determine the economic impact of making the Cocheco a NH River Protection and Management Program designated river.


Action Plan PPE-5




1. Seek partners and funding for research.

2. Design and implement study.

3. Present findings to the public.

Potential Partners: CRWC, university, communities, NHDES.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): $20,000 total project costs. Can be reduced by volunteer and student participation.

Expected Benefits: Better understand benefits of water supply, planning and decision-making.

Timetable: Near term

Contingencies: Volunteer, university resources availability. Completion of USGS groundwater study now in progress.

Action Plan PPE-7

Title of Action: Determine the economic benefit of existing and potential sources of water supply along the Cocheco River.


Action Plan PPE-6




1. Design project with partners.

2. Conduct surveys and web based interviews.

3. Analyze and further explore based on findings.

4. Develop messages/activities targeted for stakeholder based on findings.

Potential Partners: CRWC with research partners and community – conservation commissions.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): $35,000 project costs if done by university. Reduced by volunteer student and community participation.

Expected Benefits: More efficient and effective outreach activities.

Timetable: Near term – 2 year project period.

Contingencies: Volunteer, university resources.

Action Plan PPE-7

Title of Action: Research stakeholder perception of the values of Cocheco River and use to build greater stewardship of the river.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory x Research Infrastructure Change Voluntary

Action Plan PPE-7


Associated Objectives:

Improve public perception through increased access to the river for recreation/enjoyment

Establish objective and subjective values for the river. Encourage public participation in all aspects of river restoration activities.


1. Plan Photo Contest in association with Cocheco Festival Event or Rochester Fair, or other event in the watershed..

2. Solicit photo entries. 3. Solicit awards. Hold contest and award prizes. Issue press releases. 4. Develop agreement for CRWC to use photos for publicity and publications. 5. Use photos in promotional and interpretive materials.

Possible Partners: CRWC and businesses in watershed.

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Location of chosen festival for event.

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Business sponsorship $1,000

Expected Benefits: Greater visibility and public awareness of the beauty of the river.

Timetable:Near term

Contingency: Association with Festival or event, and development of partnerships.

Action Plan PPE-8

Title of Action: Conduct Cocheco River Photo Contest


Action Plan PPE-8



Use Rochester and Dover riverwalks to improve public perception in both urban and rural settings.

Demonstrate that the river is a sum of all the large and small streams that feed into the Cocheco River and that attention to these streams is important.


1. Assess available educational materials and adapt them for use on the Cocheco River.

2. Develop new materials as appropriate. 3. Develop outreach programs to use in conjunction with community events and

activities.4. Become involved as partners in planning and implementation of events and

activities.5. Participate in the development of the Rochester Riverwalk.

Possible Partners: CRWC, communities, UNHCE educators, and businesses in watershed. Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Central Dover and Rochester. Farmington in the future.

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): $5,000. Grant funding for development and business contributions. Volunteer participation.Expected Benefits: Increased knowledge and awareness of river resources and community benefits.

Timetable: Near to long term 2006 spring participation in Rochester River walk planning. 2006 fall assessment of educational materials. Implement in 2007 and 2008.

Contingency: Association with River Festival or other event

Action Plan PPE-9

Title of Action: Provide promotional efforts at downtown riverwalks to educate public about the Cocheco River.


Action Plan PPE-9


Associated Objectives:Work closely with regional, state, and national organizations and agencies on shared

goals and objectives. Encourage public participation in all aspects of river restoration activities.


1. Determine which road crossings will get signs.

2. Research state and local regulations for signs (e.g. size, type, location). Design signs.

3. Seek funding for sign making and posting. Submit paperwork for necessary permits and permission.

4. Erect signs.

5. Publicize efforts.

Potential Partners: CRWC, municipal public works departments, NHDOT, NHDES.

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): At road crossings of river and tributaries in all subwatersheds.

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Approximately $40 per sign in 50 locations = $2,000 to start.

Expected Benefits: Build public awareness of water bodies and their place in communities.

Timetable: Mid term

Title of Action: Post Cocheco River and tributary stream signs at road crossings.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory Research x Infrastructure Change x Voluntary

Action Plan PPE-10


Associated Objective:o Improve public perception through increased access to the River for

recreation/enjoyment. o Encourage public perception through increased access to the River for recreation

and enjoyment. o Demonstrate that the River is a sum of all the large and small streams that feed

into the Cocheco and that attention to all these streams is important.


1. Develop new publicity mechanisms integral to project planning. 2. Seek new and reinforce existing media relationships. 3. Develop a road show for board members and public about restoration

management and planning. 4. Participate in regular communications with boards about CRWC and restoration

activities in their town. 5. Prepare media releases and invite media to participate in activities and

implementation of publicity plans. Encourage volunteer participation in activities through press releases and presentations.

6. Make presentations to boards and citizen groups. 7. Evaluate successes and modify as needed.

Potential Partners: CRWC, town land use boards, media representatives, natural resource agencies, communities, volunteers.

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): All subwatersheds – restoration sites and meeting places.

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Volunteer participation, 319 Funding, other grants, communities.

Expected Benefits: Increased awareness of Cocheco River restoration actions and knowledge of river resources.

Timetable: Ongoing. Near to long term

Title of Action: Publicize findings and successes of the Cocheco River Restoration Program and regularly announce volunteer opportunities.


Action Plan PPE-11

Associated Goal: Public Perception and Education

Associated Objective:o Work closely with regional, state and national organizations and agencies on

shared goals and objectives. o Demonstrate that the river is a sum of all the large and small streams that feed into

the Cocheco and that attention to all these streams is important.


1. For all activities, look for opportunities for partnerships with other NGO’s. 2. Develop and improve mechanisms for sharing information. – agendas, results,

news and opportunities. 3. Improve networking among organizations in the region by offering shared space

at public events, making their promotional materials available at CRWC events, sharing credit in press releases, and attending other organizations’ annual meetings to make contacts and share information..

4. Explore opportunities to plan shared outreach with other NGO’s like the River Festival, press conferences on shared projects, etc.

Potential Partners: CRWC, Moose Mountain Regional Greenways, Strafford Rivers Conservancy, Trout Unlimited, Ducks Unlimited, for example.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): No direct costs.

Expected Benefits: More public awareness and recruitment opportunities

Timetable: Spring 2006 and Ongoing. Near to long term.

Contingencies:

Title of Action: Work with other watershed non-governmental organizations (NGO’s) on common goals.


Action Plan PPE-12


Associated Objective:o Encourage public participation in all aspects of river restoration activities. o Conduct youth civic engagement activities focused on river restoration.


1. Identify and recruit community teams for Gulf of Maine Institute program of Civic Engagement.

2. Supplement programming of 4-H, schools, scouts, and other youth groups with site-specific education related to the Cocheco River watershed and the Great Bay watershed.

3. Cooperatively seek resources and carry out programming with community youth.

Potential Partners: CRWC, schools, Gulf of Maine Institute, 4-H, Girl and Boy Scouts and other youth organizations.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Combination of grant funding and resource contributions by partner organizations.

Expected Benefits: Build interest in the river with local youth to assure river stewardship for the future.

Timetable: Begin recruitment in 2006, then ongoing. Near to long term.

Contingencies:

Title of Action: Engage youth in river restoration.


Action Plan PPE-13


Associated Objective:o Demonstrate that the River is a sum of all the large and small streams that feed

into the Cocheco and that attention to all these streams is important. o Encourage public participation in all aspects of river restoration activities.


1. Identify outreach materials to be developed that will reach the broadest segment of the watershed community (brochure, newsletter, website, etc..)

2. Seek resources for developing and producing these tools. 3. Seek volunteers to help develop the materials. 4. Plan and produce outreach materials. 5. Update materials as needed. 6. Periodically evaluate effectiveness of outreach materials.

Potential Partners: CRWC, UNHCE, UNH or MacIntosh College interns, local businesses, municipalities, volunteers.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Combination of grant funding and resource contributions by businesses and partner organizations.

Expected Benefits: Expanded visibility, recruitment of volunteers and support, public awareness of goals and river stewardship.

Timetable: Begin process in 2006, then ongoing. Near to long term.

Contingencies:

Title of Action: Develop outreach materials describing Cocheco River Restoration and Monitoring.


Water Quality Restoration Action Plans

Action Plan WQR-1

Associated Goal: Water Quality Restoration Goal

Associated Objective: Determine and minimize causes of dissolved oxygen and temperature fluctuations within the Cocheco River watershed.


7. Identify sites where DO, temperature, and BOD have been observed to be elevated or anomalous.

8. Modify sampling plan to further define fluctuations or anomalies.

9. Coordinate sampling with other water quality monitoring action plans.

10. Sample, evaluate, and report data findings.

Who is responsible: Volunteers, CRWC, VRAP, UNH, commercial and industrial riparian landowners.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grants,municipal funding, volunteer match. Approximately $20,000

Expected Benefits: Identified sources of DO variation to assist in remediation planning.

Timetable: Near term to mid term

Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Modify Sampling Plan to better define and understand causes of anomalous dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, and temperature fluctuations in the Cocheco River watershed.


Action Plan WQR-2


Associated Objective: Determine and minimize causes of Dissolved Oxygen and temperature fluctuations within the Cocheco River watershed.


1. Present results of Action WQR-1 to watershed communities and other stakeholders.

2. Determine action plan based on sampling results

3. Seek resources for recommended actions.

4. Correlate effects of dissolved oxygen and temperature variations on health of aquatic organisms and habitat.

Who is responsible: Volunteers, CRWC, local, state and federal agencies


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): To be determined based on sampling results.

Expected Benefits: Ability to implement appropriate remedial actions.

Timetable: Mid term to long term

Contingencies: Biological systems monitoring, Completion of detailed DO/temperature sampling. Funding for action.

Title of Action: Reduce sources of depressed dissolved oxygen, increased biological oxygen demand and temperature fluctuations.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory x Research x Infrastructure Change Voluntary

Action Plan WQR-3


Associated Objective: Understand and eliminate impact of failed septic systems and other bacterial loading on the Cocheco River


1. Design a detailed sampling regime in areas where excessive bacterial concentrations have been documented in the Environmental Quality Report. Utilize microbial source tracking if possible to positively identify sources.

2. Include observation of variable weather conditions that might affect sampling results.

3. Secure funding for additional sampling points. 4. Provide results of sampling to municipalities and DES. 5. Establish new sampling points where needed to further pinpoint sources of

bacterial loading. Utilize microbial source tracking if possible to positively identify sources.

6. As sources are identified and eliminated, monitor to show water quality improvement.

Who is responsible: Volunteers, CRWC, UNH, Municipalities, DES

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Farmington, Rochester, Dover

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): To be determined, volunteers, municipalities, NHDES, students.

Expected Benefits: Reduce bacterial loading along river. Improve public health and infrastructure.


Contingencies: None.

Title of Action: Modify bacterial sampling program to further identify sources of bacterial loading.


Action Plan WQR-4


Associated Objective: - Understand and eliminate impact of failed septic systems and other bacterial loading on the Cocheco River


1. Design intensive sampling regime in areas where excessive bacterial concentrations have been documented in the Environmental Quality Report.

2. Include observation of variable weather conditions that might affect sampling results.

3. Identify dry discharges that may indicate failed septic systems.

4. Provide results of sampling to municipalities.

5. Assist communities to obtain resources and funding to correct failed systems and discharges.

Who is responsible: Volunteers, CRWC, Municipalities






Title of Action: Evaluate extent of failed septic systems in heavily settled areas.


Action Plan WQR-5




1. Locate areas of concern based in part on sampling results.

2. Design sanitary survey project.

3. Recruit and train volunteers to perform sanitary surveys.

4. Complete surveys. Evaluate and map data.

5. Report findings to municipalities, NHDES.

Who is responsible: Volunteers, CRWC, Municipalities, NHDES

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Urbanized areas of watershed, particularly Farmington, Rochester, Dover

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):

Approximately $10,000 from grants – NHEP, NHDES, NHCP, municipalities, volunteers.



Contingencies: funding, cooperation.

Title of Action: Begin volunteer program to help identify illicit discharges.


Action Plan WQR-6




1. Conduct illicit discharge shoreline surveys.

2. Municipalities conduct smoke and dye tests to determine discharge points.

3. Dry discharge detection and bacterial sampling.

4. Coordinate with municipalities on results and remedies to illicit discharges.

5. Implement appropriate corrective actions by community.

Who is responsible: Volunteers, CRWC, Municipalities, DES




Timetable: Mid term to long term


Title of Action: Evaluate and correct illicit discharges and cross connections near Cocheco River and its tributaries.


Action Plan WQR-7




1. Review bacteria data in tributaries and the river to locate areas of concern.

2. Compared data to sewer service area maps.

3. Work with municipalities and DES to secure resources to support septic system testing and replacement.

Possible Partners: CRWC, Municipalities, DES, public works departments

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Upper and Middle Cocheco - Farmington, Rochester

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): To be determined, volunteers, municipalities, DES.


Timetable: Mid to long term


Action Plan WQR-12

Title of Action: Support efforts to replace or repair failed septic systems or extend town/citysewer services or other appropriate community solutions


Action Plan WQR-8




1. Identify areas of infrastructure change and improvement related to bacterial loading.

2. Develop sampling plan to evaluate pre and post replacement activities where bacterial loading was identified.

3. Encourage incorporation of post construction monitoring in septic system permit process.

Who is responsible: Municipalities

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Where bacterial loading has been identified and in heavily settled areas of Farmington, Rochester, Dover

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): To be determined, volunteers, municipalities, DES, landowners.

Expected Benefits: Reduce bacterial loading along river. Improve public health and infrastructure. Increased land values.



Action Plan WQR-13

Title of Action: Conduct water quality monitoring to verify water quality improvement in areas of septic system repair and illicit discharge corrections.

Type of Action (choose one or more): x Regulatory x Research x Infrastructure Change Voluntary

Action Plan WQR-9


Associated Objectives:Determine and work to reduce sources of elevated nutrients through modification of the sampling program.


1. Identify sampling locations with elevated phosphorus and nitrogen as described in

the EQR.

2. Design sampling plan/research to identify sources.

3. Train volunteers to conduct sampling.

4. Implement sampling plan.

5. Analyze data and write report with recommendations to remediate sources.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES, municipalities, NHCP, NHEP

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Urbanized areas of Upper, Middle and Lower Cocheco

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): EPA 319 Grantfunding (approximately $2,000), municipal funding, volunteer match.

Expected Benefits:Provide basis for water quality improvement.

Timetable: Near Term

Contingencies: Funding

Title of Action: Review existing data to identify areas of elevated phosphorus and nitrogen and modify sampling plan to assess source areas.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory x Research Infrastructure Change X Voluntary

Action Plan WQR-10


Associated Objectives:Determine and work to reduce sources of elevated nutrients (phosphorus, nitrogen compounds) through modification of the sampling program.


1. Design TMDL study.

2. Seek funding.

3. Recruit and train volunteers.

4. Implement sampling program.

5. Work with NHDES to complete TMDL.

6. Publish results and make recommendations.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Cocheco River at Watson Road in Dover and upstream.

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grant for approximately $10,000 total. Volunteer participation

Expected Benefits:Better understanding of nutrient loading impacts, basis for improving water quality


Contingencies:

Title of Action: Conduct a nutrient Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) allocation study above CRWC sampling point 12-CCH at Watson Road Bridge in Dover.

Type of Action (choose one or more): x Regulatory x Research Infrastructure Change X Voluntary

Action Plan WQR-11


Associated Objectives:o Determine and work to reduce sources of elevated nutrients through

modification of the sampling program. o Understand and reduce negative impact of stormwater discharge on the

Cocheco River.


1. Utilize BMP handbook produced for Action DSI-5 to educate residents, officials,

municipal staff and recreational users about keeping excess nutrients away from

the river.

2. Choose BMP demonstration site(s) .

3. Present BMP “how-to” programs at demonstration sites.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES, municipalities, NHCP, NHEP

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grants,municipal funding, volunteer match. Approximately $10,000

Expected Benefits:Public understanding of the impacts of stormwater, where the water goes and ultimate change in behavior.

Timetable: Mid to long termContingencies: None

Title of Action: Work with municipalities to rigorously apply Best Management Practices (BMPs) for nutrients.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory Research Infrastructure Change X Voluntary

Action Plan WQR-12


Associated Objectives:Understand and reduce negative impact of stormwater discharge on the Cocheco River.


1. Identify water quality indicators of degraded stormwater.

2. Review existing Cocheco River data to determine existing impacts of stormwater.

3. Report on findings to municipalities and DES.

4. Add water quality parameters to sampling program as needed to better identify

stormwater impacts.

5. Work on restoration plans for impacted areas.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES, municipalities, NHCP, NHEP, VRAP, volunteers.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grants,community funding, volunteer match. Expected Benefits:Public understanding of the impacts of these wastes, water quality improvement, and ultimately change behavior.

Timetable: Mid term

Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Analyze sampling data and identify existing impacts of stormwater runoffon Cocheco River water quality


Action Plan WQR-13


Associated Objectives: Understand and eliminate impact of failed septic systems and other bacterial

loading on the Cocheco River Determine and work to reduce sources of elevated nutrients through modification

of the sampling program, and Understand and reduce negative impact of stormwater discharge on the Cocheco

River.


1. Educate CRWC and public about impacts and practices of deposition of yard and

pet waste.

2. Review pertinent regulations and enforcement mechanisms.

3. Promote innovative ways to comply with these requirements.

4. Advocate enforcement of these regulations with municipalities.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES, municipalities, SRPC, UNHCE, NHCP.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grants,community funding, volunteer match.

Expected Benefits:Public understanding of the impacts of these wastes, water quality improvement, and ultimately change behavior.

Timetable: Near to mid term

Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Educate municipalities and citizens about the impact of pet waste and yard waste on water quality and work to reduce sources.

Type of Action (choose one or more): x Regulatory Research Infrastructure Change X Voluntary

Action Plan WQR-14


Associated Objectives:Determine sources and impacts of metals contamination in the Cocheco River Watershed and work to minimize impacts.


1. Review Cocheco EQR and existing Cocheco sampling results to understand

known areas of impact.

2. Increase frequency and add additional sampling locations as needed to better

define metals distribution.

3. Review sampling methodologies to assure quality assurance and quality control.

4. Sample possible source areas to determine concentration profiles.

5. Locate sources of funding for additional sampling.

6. Review results and report.

7. Further modify sampling plan as needed.

8. Work with municipalities, industry or landowners to reduce metals input to the

River.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES, municipalities, wastewater treatment plants.

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Middle and Lower Cocheco subwatersheds

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grants,community funding, volunteer match. Expected Benefits: Public understanding of the impacts of these metal contamination and water quality improvement.


Title of Action: Add regular metals analysis to sampling program to further define occurrence and sources of elevated metals.


Action Plan WQR-15


Associated Objectives:Research impacts of current and proposed stream flow on Cocheco water quality.


1. Form committee to study this issue.

2. Research withdrawals through DES and USEPA files.

3. Develop a list of withdrawals with status, conditions, and timetables for each

permitted withdrawal.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES, USEPA


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grants, approximately $1,000 total. Volunteer participation

Expected Benefits:Better understanding of stream flow impacts


Contingencies: Cooperation of parties

Title of Action: Research permitted withdrawals from Cocheco River


Action Plan WQR-16


Associated Objective:Research the impact of current and proposed stream flow withdrawals on Cocheco

water quality. Understand and eliminate impact of failed septic systems and other bacterial loading

on the Cocheco River. Determine sources and impacts of metals contamination in the Cocheco River and

work to minimize impacts. Determine and minimize causes of dissolved oxygen and temperature fluctuations

within the Cocheco River.


1. Review available studies on water withdrawal, and regionalization of wastewater treatment to become informed.

2. Participate in discussions with concerned citizens and municipal decision makers and informed professionals.

3. Participate in public process for decision-making.

Potential Partners: CRWC, communities, legislature, Great Bay Estuary Commission, Estuary Alliance for Sewage Treatment.

Location of Action : All Subwatersheds

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): To be determined

Expected Benefits: Informed understanding and decisions on the part of public and local decision makers

Timetable: Near to midterm

Contingencies:

Title of Action: Study regional options for wastewater discharge.


Action Plan WQR-17


Associated Objectives: Research impacts of current and proposed stream flow withdrawals or discharges

on Cocheco water quality. Determine and minimize causes of dissolved oxygen and temperature fluctuations

within the Cocheco River Understand and eliminate impact of failed septic systems and other bacterial

loading on the Cocheco River. Determine sources and impacts of metals contamination in the Cocheco River and

work to minimize impacts.


1. Participate in public process associated with WWTP permitting.

2. Evaluate proposed plans based on knowledge of Cocheco River water quality.

3. Seek expertise on subject when necessary.

Potential Partners: CRWC

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Farmington and Rochester

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grant for expertise, approximately $1,000 total. Volunteer participation

Expected Benefits:Better understanding of WWTP impacts, improved water quality

Timetable: Near to long term


Title of Action: Look at wastewater treatment discharge options/permits to determine how these plans will impact Cocheco River water quality.


Action Plan WQR-18


Associated Objective:Understand extent and eliminate impact of failed septic systems and other bacterial

loading on the Cocheco River, and Determine and reduce sources of elevated nutrients through modification of the

sampling program. Determine and minimize causes of dissolved oxygen and temperature fluctuations in

within the Cocheco River. Research impact of current and proposed stream flow withdrawals on the Cocheco

River.


1. Locate and study existing WWTP permits for Farmington and Rochester plants.

2. Review water quality data and compare to treatment process and discharge data.

3. Participate in public decision-making process for permitting WWTPs.

Possible Partners: CRWC, municipalities, DES, public works departments

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Middle and Lower Cocheco - Farmington, Rochester

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): To be determined, volunteers, municipalities, DES.

Expected Benefits: Reduce bacterial and nutrient loading along river. Improve public health and infrastructure.

Timetable: Mid term


Title of Action: Review Wastewater Treatment Plant permits and assist in understanding overall impacts of discharge to the River

Type of Action (choose one or more): x Regulatory x Research Infrastructure Change x Voluntary

Action Plan WQR-19


Associated Objectives:Determine impacts of former land use on Cocheco River water quality and work to reduce those effects.


1. Identify landfill sites that were not identified in the EQR. Determine level of

current impact monitoring being conducted by others.

2. Select appropriate parameters, and additional sampling points to design sampling

program to document if the landfill(s) are .having a water quality impact.

3. Recruit and train additional volunteer monitors.

4. Request additional sampling as per monitoring recommendations by landfill

responsible parties.

5. Supplement requested sampling as per design into CRWC sampling program.

6. Evaluate data and report findings.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES, municipalities, landfill RP’s, USEPA, NH TAG, volunteers


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Agency grants, approximately $10,000 per year. Volunteer participation

Expected Benefits:Improved water quality, better-informed community and officials



Title of Action: Modify sampling plan to track water quality changes in the vicinity of closed and active landfills along the Cocheco River.


Action Plan WQR-20


Associated Objectives:Determine impacts of former land use on Cocheco River water quality and work to reduce these effects.


1. Request inclusion on abutters list to receive notices and reports.

2. Develop better understanding of pollution attenuation capacity surrounding

landfills.

3. Attend meetings on relevant issues.

4. Comment on reports and plans as appropriate.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES, municipalities, USEPA, NH TAG

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Upper and Middle Cocheco

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Volunteer participation

Expected Benefits:Improved water quality



Title of Action: Track progress of evaluation and development of closed and active landfills in Farmington, Rochester and Dover


Action Plan WQR-21


Associated Objectives:Determine impacts of former land use on Cocheco River water quality and work to reduce these effects.


1. Work with DES, USEPA, and Dover to hasten attenuation monitoring at landfill.

2. Advocate for the process.

3. Review sampling results periodically.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES, Dover, USEPA, NH TAG

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Lower Cocheco

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Volunteer participation

Expected Benefits:Improved water quality



Title of Action: Work with Dover to track contaminant attenuation feasibility study at Dover Municipal Landfill on Tolend Road in Dover.


Action Plan WQR-22


Associated Objectives:Determine and minimize causes of dissolved oxygen and temperature fluctuations within the Cocheco River.


1. Design a TMDL study.

2. Seek funding for study.

3. Recruit and train volunteers to conduct study.

4. Implement sampling program.

5. Work with DES to complete TMDL.

6. Publish results and make recommendations.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES, volunteers

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Middle and Upper Cocheco in Farmington and Rochester

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Grants and volunteer participation

Expected Benefits:Better understanding of DO loading in this part of the watershed.

Timetable: Near term.

Contingencies: Funding and cooperation.

Title of Action: Complete a TMDL for dissolved oxygen in the Cocheco River in Farmington and Rochester.


Action Plan WQR-23


Associated Objectives:Complete water quality monitoring on all Cocheco River watershed assessment units.


1. Work with DES to choose a monitoring station for each assessment unit in the

watershed.

2. Develop schedule and methodology to monitor all assessment units for attainment

as per the CALM. Include this process in the Cocheco River Watershed

Monitoring Plan.

3. Review sampling plan each year to determine what AU’s have been added and

report progress as part of yearly monitoring evaluation and work plan

development for subsequent years.

4. Provide new water quality data to DES on a timely basis.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES, volunteers, communities, VRAP, USEPA


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Grants and volunteer participation

Expected Benefits:Complete assessment of watershed water quality as per the CALM. Full evaluation for reporting to USEPA and Congress which enables funding.

Timetable: Near to long term, complete by 2015

Contingencies: Funding and other resources for water quality testing.

Title of Action: Complete water quality assessment on all assessment units within the watershed so that DES water quality attainment can be evaluated.


Habitat Improvement Action Plans

Action Plan HI-1

Associated Goal: Habitat Improvement Goal

Associated Objective: Conduct research on and conduct inventories of aquatic and terrestrial species and their habitat to evaluate the present condition of the Cocheco River corridor.


1. Assemble studies on hand and those available from agencies and communities. 2. Review studies for habitat restoration recommendations. 3. Review new (2005) state wildlife management plan. 4. Synthesize material and recommendations for this watershed to supplement

restoration planning and implementation activities. 5. Distribute report to CRWC Board, conservation commissions and New Hampshire Fish and Game Department.

Potential Partners: CRWC, conservation commissions, conservation organizations, NHFG.

Location of Action: All subwatersheds

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Volunteers, grant for writing supplement.

Expected Benefits: Better restoration coordination.

Timetable:Near term


Title of Action: Gather, analyze, and report on completed habitat studies along the Cocheco River and its tributaries.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory X Research Infrastructure Change x Voluntary

Action Plan HI-2




1. Learn which communities need to complete or update an NRI.

2. Encourage completion with collection of field data and search for funding.

Potential Partners: CRWC, Conservation Commissions, other watershed organizations, SRPC.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): $25,000 – state grant funding and municipal contributions.

Expected Benefits: Gain a better understanding of habitat quality and restoration needs.

Timetable:Near term


Title of Action: Encourage communities to conduct natural resource inventories (NRIs) and water resources chapters for master plans.


Action Plan HI-3

Associated Goal: Habitat Improvement



1. Request information from DRED-NHI about exemplary natural communities that occur in the watershed.

2. Become aware of characteristics to watch for while performing monitoring and assessments.

3. Train volunteers to identify these exemplary communities as they perform other monitoring tasks.

4. Work with municipalities to protect exemplary natural communities.

Potential Partners: TNC, NHDES, DRED- NHI, Conservation Commissions, other watershed organizations, SRPC.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Not yet determined

Expected Benefits: Protection of river resources and exemplary natural communities.



Title of Action: Work with New Hampshire Natural Heritage Inventory to identify exemplary natural communities in the watershed.


Action Plan HI-4


Associated Objective: Conduct research on and inventories of aquatic and terrestrial species and their habitat to evaluate the present condition of Cocheco River habitat.


1. Review collected habitat data to determine areas where buffer surveys have been completed.

2. Prioritize areas needing additional surveys.

3. Work with DES, NHFG and other agencies to identify an appropriate buffer survey format and procedure.

4. Seek funding and volunteers for completing surveys.

5. Train volunteers.

6. Complete surveys as needed until all buffer areas are surveyed.

Potential Partners: CRWC, landowners, DES, NHFG, UNHCE, ASNH, municipalities.



Expected Benefits: Improved understanding of wildlife and instream habitat and land use changes


Action Plan HI-5

Title of Action: Review collected data and determine additional areas that need buffer and habitat surveys and complete surveys as needed.


Action Plan HI-5


Associated Objective: Conduct research on and inventories of aquatic and terrestrial species and their habitat to evaluate the present condition of Cocheco River habitat.


1. Assess wildlife populations in gravel pits, agricultural lands, and other cultural features along the corridor.

2. Assess impacts of current management practices on river quality and habitat.

3. Seek advice of wildlife biologists and managers to evaluate the present status and management options for these lands.

4. Make recommendations for gravel pit restoration and/or management where appropriate. Make recommendations for agricultural land management or restoration where appropriate.

Potential Partners: CRWC, landowners, NHFG, UNHCE, ASNH, municipalities, New Hampshire Department of Agriculture

Location of Action: Farmington, Rochester and Dover




Contingencies:

Action Plan HI-6

Title of Action: Research and report on impacts and benefits of gravel pits, agricultural land, and other cultural open space in the riparian zone of the Cocheco River corridor.


Action Plan HI-6




1. Re-examine present monitoring sites and related data to identify correlations. 2. Work with VRAP and VBAP to modify monitoring plan. 3. Recruit and train monitors, and obtain monitoring equipment 4. Implement integrated monitoring project. 5. Evaluate results and check correlations 6. Report results.

Potential Partners: VRAP & VBAP, DES, CRWC, Conservation Commissions, other watershed organizations.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): $25,000 – state grant funding and voluntary cooperation.

Expected Benefits: Gain a better understanding of organisms in the river and their relationship with water quality.

Timetable:Near to long term


Title of Action: Establish chemical, physical and biological monitoring stations to determine links between biological and chemical changes along the River.


Action Plan HI-7


Associated Objective: Determine the distribution of nuisance aquatic and terrestrial species and habitat to evaluate the present condition of Cocheco River habitat.


1. Identify species of interest and their preferred habitat. Research known waters or land where invasives are present. Work with the NH Invasive Species Committee (advisory group to the NH Department of Agriculture) and DES to identify survey needs.

2. Train volunteers to do survey.

3. Perform appropriate surveys and gather data and analyze.

4. Make information available to public and conservation community.

Potential Partners: NHDES, UNHCE, CRWC, Conservation Commissions, Weed Watchers

Location of Action: All watershed communities.


Expected Benefits: Information will provide baseline for management decisions.


Contingencies:

Title of Action: Survey distribution and determine causes of terrestrial and aquatic nuisance species.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory X Research Infrastructure Change Voluntary

Action Plan HI-8




1. Working with DES (responsible for the evaluation and listing of aquatic plant species under RSA 487:16a determine the extent of milfoil and other aquatic invasive plant populations in the river corridor.

2. Study costs and impacts of milfoil – economic and other.

3. Use results to drive public education and management decisions.

Potential Partners: DES, UNH, CRWC, Conservation Commissions, Weed Watchers

Location of Action: Cocheco main stem.

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): $20,000 for study

Expected Benefits: Study will provide basis for obtaining resources for control of invasives.

Timetable:Near to mid term

Contingencies: Development of partnerships

Title of Action: Determine the cost and impact of nuisance aquatic species such as variable milfoil and duckweed on Cocheco River habitat and water quality


Action Plan HI-9




1. Choose species or category of species and assemble available information. 2. Develop specific information packets. 3. Design and present public programming. 4. Develop demonstration sites for control of nuisance species. 5. Coordinate programming with DES Weed Watcher Program and with other

communities and watershed organizations.

Potential Partners: NH Invasive Species Committee, Rochester, Dover, riparian landowners, NHDES, UNHCE, CRWC, Conservation Commissions, other watershed organizations.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): $20,000 – grant funding and voluntary participation

Expected Benefits: Reduced populations and prevention of spreading of invasive aquatic plants.


Contingencies: Landowner cooperation

Title of Action: Educate the public about the causes and control of nuisance species


Action Plan HI-10


Associated Objective: Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use of demonstration sites and activities on the Cocheco River.


1. Organize several volunteer activities to locate deposits of solid waste along river.

2. Identify types and amount of waste at each location.

3. Identify partners to help clean up, remove and dispose of waste.

4. Plan schedule of cleanup and educational activities related to solid waste and riparian corridors.

Potential Partners: CRWC, schools, Waste Management Inc., civic organizations, riparian landowners, volunteers.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grants, business sponsorship, community public works departments

Expected Benefits: Cleaner river, improved buffer areas, pride in river.


Contingencies:

Title of Action: Conduct a solid waste survey along the Cocheco River corridor and tributaries with the assistance of neighbors and volunteers.


Action Plan HI-11


Associated Objective:

Conduct research on and inventories of aquatic and terrestrial species and their habitat to evaluate the present condition of Cocheco River habitat.

Identify sites along tributary streams and the river needing restoration.


1. Identify road crossings of the main stem and tributaries to the Cocheco River. 2. Train volunteers to characterize road crossings and document current conditions. 3. Determine which crossings have obstacles to flow or wildlife passage. 4. Report findings to municipalities, NHDOT, or landowners to correct these

crossings.5. Make recommendations for restoration of critical crossing points and seek

cooperation or funding to correct them.

Potential Partners: CRWC, landowners, NHFG, UNHCE, ASNH, municipalities, New Hampshire Department of Agriculture





Contingencies:

Title of Action: Survey road crossings to identify obstacles to stream flow and wildlife passage


Action Plan HI-12


Associated Objective:Identify sites along the tributary streams and river needing restoration, and

Improve recreational value of river by increasing healthy fish populations.


1. Survey road crossings for restrictions of stream flow. Tour hydropower operations. Locate breeched dams in the Cocheco watershed.

2. Seek information from wildlife and fish biologists, dam operators and dam regulators about dam operations, benefits of operations and impacts on river ecosystems.

3. Educate the public on issues related to benefits and impacts of dam operation.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, NHFG, CRWC, DES River Restoration Program, and NHCP


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Taxes, grants and in-kind services. Cost to be determined

Expected Benefits: Better informed decision-making.


Contingencies:

Title of Action: Understand the impact of dam operations on Cocheco River instream and riparian habitat.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory Research x Infrastructure Change Voluntary

Action Plan HI-13


Associated Objectives: Conduct research on and conduct inventories of aquatic and terrestrial species and their habitat to evaluate the present condition of the Cocheco River corridor, and Restore and protect instream and riparian habitats and buffer areas.


1. Review existing information on instream and riparian habitat condition.

2. Plan additional field studies to fill data gaps.

3. Assess current buffer and instream habitat.

4. Get recommendations for buffer enhancement and species management from

NHFG

5. Develop plan to use as basis for restoration of corridor

6. Identify partners to assist or carry out habitat restoration

Potential Partners: CRWC, NHFG, NHDES, TU, municipalities, riparian landowners.

Location of Action: all subwatersheds


Expected Benefits: Improved wildlife and instream habitat


Contingencies:

Title of Action: Using collected riparian buffer data determine priority buffer restoration areas.


Action Plan HI-14


Associated Objective: Restore and protect instream and riparian habitats and buffer areas.


1. Assess riparian habitat in vicinity of gravel pits.

2. Assess wildlife in gravel pit area and along adjacent river corridor

3. Plan and recommend actions

Potential Partners: Gravel pit owners and operators, ASNH, NHFG, communities, DES, UNH, CRWC

Location of Action: Main stem in Farmington, Rochester and Dover


Expected Benefits: Higher quality habitat along River



Title of Action: Restore gravel pits to protect river corridor and to keep new gravel pit habitat intact for buffer integrity.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory X Research x Infrastructure Change x Voluntary

Action Plan HI-15




1. Identify locations for osprey platforms with the assistance of ASNH and NHFG. 2. Work with partners to secure plans and resources. 3. Seek permission from landowners. 4. Build and erect platforms. 5. Monitor usage of platforms by ospreys. 6. Publicize progress of program.

Potential Partners: Landowners, CRWC, NHFG, PSNH, Audubon, UNHCE, Thompson School students.

Location of Action: Middle Cocheco subwatershed.

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): To be determined, volunteer time and donated materials.

Expected Benefits: Increase osprey populations and improved river ecosystem.

Timetable:Near term

Contingencies: Permission for installation and monitoring of platforms

Title of Action: Establish additional osprey platforms along the river corridor


Action Plan HI-16



Restore and improve instream and riparian habitats and buffer areas.Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use of

demonstration sites and activities on the Cocheco River.(DSI-6)


1. Solicit volunteers, schools and civic organizations for cleanups.

2. Schedule cleanup days based on volunteer availability.

3. Complete cleanups.

4. Track amount and type of waste removed.

5. Report and publicize progress of cleanups to local media and communities.

Potential Partners: CRWC, schools, Waste Management, Inc., civic organizations, riparian landowners, volunteers.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grants, business sponsorship, community public works departments

Expected Benefits: Cleaner River, improved buffer areas, pride in river.


Contingencies: Volunteer resources.

Title of Action: Organize and carry out periodic solid waste cleanups along the Cocheco River corridor and tributaries with the assistance of neighbors and volunteers.


Action Plan HI-17



Conduct research on and conduct inventories of aquatic and terrestrial species and their habitat to evaluate the present condition of the Cocheco River corridor.

Restore and protect instream and riparian habitat s and buffer areas.


1. Understand requirements for 4th order designation.

2. Study tributaries in upper watershed to determine if they meet criteria

3. Follow process for change, if found to be a 4th order stream at the Mad River.

Potential Partners: DES, UNH, CRWC, municipalities

Location of Action: Upper Cocheco


Expected Benefits: Enhance shoreland protection downstream of 4th order confluence based on New Hampshire Shoreland Protection Regulations


Contingencies:

Title of Action: Determine if Cocheco River is a 4th order stream at Mad River Confluence in order to increase the protection of the River through the NH Shoreland Protection Act

Type of Action (choose one or more): x Regulatory X Research Infrastructure Change Voluntary

Action Plan HI-18


Associated Objective: Identify sites along tributary streams and the River needing restoration.


1. Gather and review prior studies and management plans regarding riparian corridors.

2. Learn what areas are now protected along the Cocheco. 3. Perform stream assessments with riparian lands included. 4. Set goals for corridor protection. 5. Work with communities to incorporate corridor protection into regulations and

plans.

Potential Partners: CRWC, All municipalities, NHCP, DES, riparian landowners, UNHCE


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Volunteers and grant funding

Expected Benefits: Improved riparian corridor habitat, healthy wildlife populations.

Timetable:Near to mid term

Contingencies: Landowner cooperation

Title of Action: Determine optimal width of protection corridor on Cocheco River and tributaries to adequately protect wildlife and habitat.

Type of Action (choose one or more): x Regulatory X Research Infrastructure Change x Voluntary

Action Plan HI-19




1. Report recommended buffer restoration areas to municipalities and landowners, as appropriate.

2. Design restoration projects. 3. Educate public about projects and solicit their participation. 4. Implement projects by phases. 5. Celebrate success of projects.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, CRWC, UNHCE, NRCS, landowners


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Municipal budgets, grants, volunteers

Expected Benefits: Reduced stream bank erosion, improved habitat, improved aesthetics.


Contingencies: municipal and citizen participation

Title of Action: Work to restore other areas identified for buffer and habitat restoration.


Action Plan HI-20


Associated Objectives: Conduct research on and conduct inventories of aquatic and terrestrial species and their habitat to evaluate the present condition of the Cocheco River corridor, and Restore and protect instream and riparian habitats and buffer areas.


1. Learn what inventory work and land protection measures have been initiated by

other groups.

2. Understand priorities for other protection organizations.

3. Work with these organizations to include CRWC priorities in protection efforts.

4. Develop plan to use as basis for restoration of corridor

Potential Partners: CRWC, SRPC, Strafford Rivers Conservancy, NHFG, other conservation groups, open space committees.

Location of Action: all subwatersheds


Expected Benefits: Improved corridor and habitat protection, improved water quality protection.


Contingencies:

Action Plan HI-21 Action Plan HI-21

Title of Action: Work with local land protection organizations to identify and protect priority lands for habitat and river corridor protection.


Action Plan HI-21


Associated Objective: Improve recreational value of the river by increasing healthy fish populations.


1. Gather prior studies and learn what and where study has been done. 2. Consult with wildlife and fish biologists and managers to learn about present

populations.3. Relate that information to present conditions of river and explore options for

restoration.

Potential Partners: CRWC, fishing organizations, UNHCE, NHFG.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Volunteers, grant funding.

Expected Benefits: Better management of fish populations and set goals for restoration of species.

Timetable:Near term to long term

Contingencies: Available information

Title of Action: Research historic fish species and their distribution within the Cocheco River Watershed.


Action Plan HI-22


Associated Objectives: Restore and protect instream and riparian habitats and buffer areas. Improve recreational value of the river by increasing healthy fish populations.


1. Assess fish habitat at known trouble spots such as impediments to travel and hydromodification.

2. Consider alternatives actions for habitat restoration and choose restoration actions appropriate to the site and fish populations desired.

3. Secure permits and resources to effect restoration. 4. Implement restoration plan. 5. Monitor progress and report. 6. Celebrate successes.

Potential Partners: Town Conservation Commissions, CRWC, NH Fish and Game, Trout Unlimited, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services.

Location of Action: Whittier Falls in Dover

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Dover $750,000

Expected Benefits: Healthy fish populations and related ecosystem improvement.


Contingencies: Extensive process

Title of Action: Study impact of shallow bedrock on riparian habitat at Whittier Falls in Dover.


Action Plan HI-23



Restore and protect instream and riparian habitats and buffer areas. Improve recreational value of the river by increasing healthy fish populations.


1. Set restoration goals for area in concert with Army Corps and Farmington Conservation Commission.

2. Conduct feasibility study of restoration/ 3. Develop implementation plan. 4. Implement plan. 5. Monitor progress and report. 6. Celebrate successes.

Potential Partners: Farmington Conservation Commission, CRWC, NH Fish and Game, fishing organizations, US Army CoE

Location of Action: Main stem in Farmington.

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grants. $60,000 for feasibility, $1,000,000 for restoration

Expected Benefits: Connect fish habitat of Cocheco with Mad River



Title of Action: Work with NH Fish and Game Department and US Army Corps of Engineers to study and improve fish habitat in flood control project on the Cocheco River in Farmington


Action Plan HI-24


Associated Objective:o Restore and protect instream and riparian habitats and buffer areas. o Improve recreational value of the river by increasing healthy fish populations o Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future

stormwater structures. (DSI-4)o Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use

of demonstration sites and activities on the Cocheco River. (DSI-6)


1. Identify water quality and habitat restoration needs. Design restoration project. 2. Plan community outreach to coincide with restoration activities. 3. Educate public about project and solicit their participation. 4. Work with Dover Environmental Projects Coordinator to prepare RFP for

contractors, assessment and project design. 5. Implement project by phases. 6. Carry out educational activities as part of project. 7. Implement BMPs with the participation of neighbors and landowners. 8. Celebrate success of project.

Potential Partners: City of Dover, CRWC, UNHCE, landowners, UNH Stormwater Center

Location of Action: Lower Cocheco

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): $150,000 per year for several years, municipal budget, grants, volunteers.

Expected Benefits: Stormwater storage, pollution prevention, improved habitat, improved aesthetics.


Title of Action: Work with the City of Dover on the Berry Brook restoration project and restore brook to natural stream functions.


Action Plan HI-25



Restore and protect instream and riparian habitats and buffer areaso Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future

stormwater structures.(DSI-4) o Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use

of demonstration sites and activities on the Cocheco River.(DSI-6)


1. Develop a watershed management plan for Wordley Brook 2. Design water quality and habitat restoration project. 3. Educate public about project and solicit their participation. 4. Begin with cleanup of debris to start project. 5. Implement project by phases. 6. Establish and use BMPs for landowners. 7. Celebrate success of project.

Potential Partners: Rochester DPW and Conservation Commission, CRWC, UNHCE, landowners

Location of Action: Middle Cocheco

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): $150,000 per year for several years, taxes, grants. NRCS WHIP grant, volunteers.

Expected Benefits: Stormwater storage, pollution prevention, improved habitat, improved aesthetics.



Title of Action: Restore Willow (Wordley) Brook and Cocheco River to natural stream function.


Action Plan HI-26


Associated Objective:o Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future

stormwater structures. o Restore and protect instream and riparian habitats and buffer areas.o Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use

of demonstration sites and activities on the Cocheco River.


1. Design buffer and habitat restoration project. 2. Correct stormwater drainage problems. 3. Educate public about project and solicit their participation. 4. Implement project. 5. Celebrate success of project.

Potential Partners: Town of Farmington, CRWC, UNHCE, St. Peters church, NRCS, landowners, DES

Location of Action: Upper Cocheco

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grant and volunteers

Expected Benefits: Reduced stream bank erosion, improved habitat, improved aesthetics.



Title of Action: Work with the Town of Farmington to restore Mad River at Tappan Street.


Development and Stormwater Impact Action Plans

Action Plan DSI-1

Associated Goal: Development and Stormwater Impact Goal

Associated Objective:Improve planning, design, and construction methods to reduce negative impact on

Cocheco River. Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use of

demonstration sites and activities on the Cocheco River.


1. Educate coalition members and public regarding the impact of impervious surfaces on the watershed using recent data and studies (eg. USGS, 2005).

2. Assemble information on alternative to impervious surfaces and innovative stormwater treatment methods.

3. Work with public works department and land use boards to educate them about alternatives to impervious cover and restricting impervious surfaces within generous stream buffers. Request that impervious surface alternatives and effective stormwater treatment methods be adopted for municipal work.

4. Encourage citizens and developers to learn about and utilize impervious surface alternatives and effective stormwater treatment methods.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, NHCP, NHEP, DES, SRPC, UNH Stormwater Center, CRWC, municipal public works departments


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):To be determined

Expected Benefits:Water quality improvement, habitat improvement, and aesthetic improvement, reduce mosquitoes.


Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Reduce or minimize proliferation of impervious surfaces in the watershed.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory Research X Infrastructure Change X Voluntary

Action Plan DSI-2


Associated Objective:o Improve planning, design, and construction methods to reduce negative impact on

Cocheco River. o Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future

stormwater structures. o Improve enforcement of federal, state and local regulations that improve and

protect the quality of the Cocheco River.


1. Educate coalition members and public regarding minimum impact development. 2. Research standards and practices of minimum impact development. 3. Develop educational materials and displays with examples related to the Cocheco

watershed.4. Promote use of these practices to land use boards and developers through existing

and new workshops and land use board technical sessions.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, NHCP, NHDES, SRPC, Jordan Institute and CRWC


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):To be determined

Expected Benefits:Improved water quality, stormwater retention and treatment.


Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Promote minimum impact developments.


Action Plan DSI-3



Cocheco River. Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment of at existing and future

stormwater structures.


1. Find interested municipalities and identify a site for the snow dump. 2. Work with DES, other states, and federal agencies to design innovative

stormwater treatment for the snow dump. 3. Build the snow dump (municipality would manage all construction related

activities).4. Monitor runoff from new snow dump and compare to impacts from unimproved

dumpsites. 5. Hold demonstrations for other municipalities to encourage retrofits or changes to

their snow dump areas.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, NHCP, DES, CRWC, municipal public works departments

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Urban areas in Middle and Lower Cocheco.

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Municipal tax revenues and grant funding

Expected Benefits:Water quality improvement, reduction of sedimentation.


Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Erect a demonstration snow dump to reduce impact of snow waste runoff to the Cocheco River.

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory Research X Infrastructure Change Voluntary

Action Plan DSI-4



Cocheco River.Improve enforcement of federal, state, and local regulations that improve or

protect the quality of the Cocheco River.Determine the impact of road crossing design and maintenance on the water

quality of the river and tributary streams.


1. Determine regulatory standards for and status of stormwater management planning in each community.

2. Meet with each town to determine how CRWC could assist with plan development and implementation as appropriate in each community.

3. Prepare memorandum of understanding to cooperate in stormwater management activities that benefit from the involvement of CRWC.

4. Perform assistance work using the actions outlined in the agreement. 5. Evaluate program periodically, modify if needed, and report on progress.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, NHCP, DES, CRWC, SRPC, municipal public works departments



Expected Benefits:Water quality improvement, reduction of sedimentation.


Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Assist municipalities in carrying out stormwater management plans.

Type of Action (choose one or more): x Regulatory Research X Infrastructure Change x Voluntary

Action Plan DSI-5



Cocheco River.o Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future

stormwater structures. o Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use



1. Collect and review stormwater BMP handbooks completed in other watersheds. 2. Identify unique needs of Cocheco. 3. Assemble working/review group to assist with the project. 4. Seek funding for plan development. 5. Prepare plan with the assistance of the working group.

Potential Partners: Conservation Commissions, NHCP, DES, CRWC, UNH Stormwater Center, municipal public works departments



Expected Benefits:Education of citizens about impacts of actions on water quality and habitat. Water quality improvement, reduction of sedimentation.


Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Develop Cocheco River Watershed Best Management Handbook for Stormwater Management for residents, municipal staff and officials.


Action Plan DSI-6


Associated Objective: Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future stormwater structures.


1. Conduct storm drain stenciling at catch basins in the Cocheco River Watershed.

2. Develop display materials on stormwater BMP’s for public events.

3. Conduct a demonstration workshop at a residential and commercial site.

Potential Partners: CRWC, DES, municipalities, NHCP, NHEP, UNHCE

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Urbanized areas of Upper, Middle and Lower Cocheco

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Grants,municipal funding, volunteer match. Approximately $10,000

Expected Benefits:Public understanding of the impacts of stormwater, where the water goes and ultimate change in behavior.


Contingencies: Development of a BMP handbook.

Title of Action: Educate public about stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs)

Type of Action (choose one or more): Regulatory Research Infrastructure Change X Voluntary

Action Plan DSI-7


Associated Objective:Improve enforcement of federal, state, and local regulations that improve or protect

the quality of the Cocheco River. Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use of



1. Educate coalition members and public regarding the benefits of shoreland protection.

2. Review local and state regulations. 3. Encourage enforcement of these regulations by municipalities through meetings

with town employees and land use boards. Work on specific examples of successful shoreland protection and known infringements. .

4. Educate and work with riparian landowners to help them understand regulations and the purpose of these requirements.

5. Encourage and promote shoreland protection where none exists.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, NHCP, DES, and CRWC


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Municipal budgets

Expected Benefits:Improved water quality, habitat and recreation potential.


Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Work with citizens and municipalities to reduce shoreand protection violations and stream bank modification

Type of Action (choose one or more): x Regulatory Research Infrastructure Change X Voluntary

Action Plan DSI-8




1. Research procedure for river nomination.

2. Form a committee to set strategies and recruit participants.

3. Prepare nomination materials.

4. Become involved in legislative process and encourage public support and

participation.

Possible Partners: CRWC, communities, citizens, volunteers, DES

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Main stem of Cocheco River

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Approximately $10,000

Expected Benefits: Increase in awareness of River, additional regulation to protect River.

Timetable: Long term

Action Plan PPE-3

Title of Action: Work to make the Cocheco River a state designated river under the NH Rivers Management and Protection Program

Type of Action (choose one or more): x Regulatory x Research Infrastructure Change x Voluntary

Action Plan DSI-9


Associated Objective: Protect groundwater resources that provide public water supply, support wetland

communities, and recharge tributaries and the Cocheco River. Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use of



1. Identify municipal and community water supply well locations.

2. Identify important groundwater recharge and discharge zones.

3. Provide land protection organizations with information on vulnerable areas and high value riparian habitat.

4. Work with municipalities and land protection organizations to protect the resources that underlie these lands through encouragement of conservation easement and land purchase.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, DES, CRWC, land conservation organizations, landowners.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Municipal tax revenues and grant funding, cooperation with other organizations.

Expected Benefits:Water quality improvement, protection of fragile ecosystems. Improved riparian habitats.

Timetable: Ongoing. Near to long term

Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Promote protection of groundwater resources in the Cocheco watershed.


Action Plan DSI-10


Associated Objective:Improve planning, design, and construction methods to reduce negative impacts on

Cocheco River. Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment of at existing and future

stormwater structures. Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through

demonstration sites and activities along the Cocheco River.


1. Work with municipalities to survey stormwater infrastructure conditions. 2. On a case-by-case basis, find ways to correct problems identified.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, NHDOT, DES, CRWC, municipal public works departments

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Urban areas in Middle and Lower Cocheco.


Expected Benefits:Water quality improvement, reduction of sedimentation, and improved riparian habitats.


Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Identify and correct flawed or outdated stormwater infrastructure along the Cocheco River and its tributaries.


Action Plan DSI-11



Cocheco River. o Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment of at existing and future

stormwater structures. o Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through



1. Identify potential locations for innovative stormwater treatment systems. 2. Work with municipal staff to identify and develop an appropriate innovative

treatment method. 3. Design site specific application. 4. Implement design on chosen site. 5. Demonstrate the innovate system for other municipal staff and/or land use boards.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, DES, CRWC, public works departments

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Middle and Lower Cocheco subwatersheds


Expected Benefits:Water quality improvement, reduction of sedimentation. Improved riparian habitats.


Contingencies: None

Action Plan DSI-13

Title of Action: Encourage and sponsor innovative stormwater treatment demonstration projects.


Action Plan DSI-12



Cocheco River Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment of at existing and future

stormwater structures. Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through



1. Review best management practices for road crossings. 2. Develop liaisons with public works departments. 3. Assess Cocheco River and tributary road crossings and maintenance practices

with respect to erosion and sedimentation. 4. Work with municipalities to promote correction of runoff problems 5. Promote improved maintenance practices.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, DES, CRWC, municipal public works departments





Contingencies: None

Action DSI-13

Title of Action: Evaluate road crossings and lessen stormwater impairment at these Cocheco River discharge points.


Action Plan DSI-13



Cocheco River, Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through



1. Work with DES, NHCP and NHDOT to develop a “road show” about treatment and stormwater impacts on rivers and streams.

2. Work with “Roads scholars” to develop a program for DPW’s. 3. Use show for municipal training programs. 4. Develop demonstration sites for Best Management Practices for road treatment

and construction adjacent to crossings.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, DES, CRWC, NHCP, municipal public works departments, UNH T2, and NHDOT





Contingencies: None

Action Plan DSI-17

Title of Action: Educate department of public works managers and road crews on impacts of road treatment and construction on river and tributaries in watershed.


Action Plan DSI-14




1. Identify buffer/restoration sites that would be suitable for educational purposes. 2. Work with technical and education experts to develop educational programming. 3. Seek funding and support for project. 4. Modify/improve existing buffer as necessary. 5. Prepare and install signage at training site. 6. Develop educational and training programs using the chosen site as a major

teaching tool. 7. Evaluate success and modify buffer site as needed.

Potential Partners: CRWC, communities, UNHCE, riparian landowners, volunteers.

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Subwatershed of chosen site (probably Middle or Lower Cocheco).

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): To be determined.

Expected Benefits: Improved understanding of resource management, improved water and habitat quality


Contingencies: Appropriate buffer sites available

Action DSI-15

Title of Action: Establish a riparian buffer demonstration site(s).


Action Plan DSI-15




1. Identify buffer and restoration sites that would be suitable for educational purposes.

2. Work with technical and education experts to develop educational programming.

3. Seek funding and support for project.

4. Implement a variety of public education and training programs.

5. Evaluate success and publish report.

Potential Partners: CRWC, communities, riparian landowners, volunteers, DES, UNHCE.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source): Integrate with restoration costs. Costs to be determined.

Expected Benefits: Improved resource management, improved water and habitat quality


Contingencies: Appropriate buffer sites available

Title of Action: Prepare and provide citizen/municipal training programs at riparian demonstration sites.


Action Plan DSI-16

Associated Goal: Development and Stormwater Impact Goals

Associated Objective: Improve planning, design, and construction methods to reduce negative impact on

Cocheco River, Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through



1. Review existing riparian corridor Best Management Practices (BMPs)

2. Prepare materials on BMPs for Cocheco River and its tributaries.

3. Work with municipalities to implement practices.

4. Introduce BMP concepts to the public through the media.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, DES, UNH T2, CRWC, NHCP, and UNHCE


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):In kind services and grant funding

Expected Benefits:Water quality improvement, reduction of sedimentation, improved aesthetics, and improved riparian habitats.

Timetable: Mid term

Contingencies: None

Action Plan DSI-14

Title of Action: Work with municipalities to develop and implement Best Management Practices along riparian corridors.


Action Plan DSI-17


Associated Objective:Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through demonstration sites and activities along the Cocheco River.


1. Work with DES, NHCP to develop a “road show” about the value of riparian buffers.

2. Work with “Roads Scholars” (volunteers) to develop a program for DPW’s. 3. Develop interactive educational programs. 4. Offer these training programs at demonstration buffer sites.

Potential Partners: Municipalities, NHDES, CRWC, NHCP, UNH T2 and UNHCE


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):In kind and grant funding

Expected Benefits:Water quality improvement, functioning streams, and reduction of sedimentation. Improved riparian habitats.


Contingencies: None

Action Plan DSI-19

Title of Action: Educate citizens, riparian landowners, and municipalities about the value of riparian buffers and Best Management Practices for streamside use.


Action Plan DSI-18


Associated Objectives:o Improve planning, design, and construction methods to reduce negative impacts

of development on the Cocheco River.

o Improve public perception through increased access to the river for recreation and enjoyment.


1. Obtain previously prepared erosion control design from NRCS. 2. Meet with Farmington town staff and officials to plan project and acquire funding

and other resources. 3. Reconstruct canoe launch and complete erosion control. 4. Celebrate new access to River.

Potential Partners: Town of Farmington, Boy Scouts, CRWC

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Upper Cocheco

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Materials and construction will be a combination of Town resources and contributions from the private sector.

Expected Benefits: Improved and safer access to the River, remediation of erosion and sedimentation at access point.


Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Correct erosion at Cocheco Road Bridge crossing of Cocheco River in Farmington and restore the canoe landing.


Action Plan DSI-19



o Improve planning, design, and construction methods to reduce negative impacts of development on the Cocheco River. Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future



1. Rochester Public Works design project.

2. Construct new drainage structure.

3. Restore the stream bank.

4. Celebrate completion of the project with CRWC.

5. Evaluate and publish the success of the project.

Potential Partners: City of Rochester Public Works Department, CRWC

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Middle Cocheco

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Municipal budget allocation.

Expected Benefits: Improved water quality, habitat, aesthetics and access to the river.

Timetable: Near termContingencies: None

Title of Action: Improve drainage from River Street in Rochester at the City Dam.


Action Plan DSI-20



o Improve planning, design, and construction methods to reduce negative impacts of development on the Cocheco River.

o Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future stormwater structures.


1. Design project 2. Construct new drainage system. 3. Revegetate and restore the riparian buffer. 4. Evaluate the success of the project and report on it.

Potential Partners: Rochester Public Works Department, NRCS.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Funding allocated with NRCS WHIP program.

Expected Benefits: Reduced erosion and sedimentation, improved water and habitat quality.


Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Correct and improve stormwater drainage at Catherine Street in Rochester.


Action Plan DSI-21


Associated Objectives:o Determine the impact of road crossing design and maintenance on the water

quality of the river and tributary streams. o Conduct youth civic engagement activities focused on the river.(PPE)


1. Design project with Rochester Public Works to minimize impact on stream. 2. Work with youth and DPW to replace stones and improve drainage structure. 3. Work with students to assess trout habitat and complete additional restoration as

needed.4. Celebrate completion of the project. 5. Evaluate the success of the project and report on it.

Potential Partners: City of Rochester Public Works Department, CRWC, Local youth group or students, NRCS.



Expected Benefits: Reduced erosion and sedimentation, improved water quality, trout habitat, aesthetics and access to the River.


Contingencies: Permission of riparian landowner

Title of Action: Restore sewer easement crossing of Hurd Brook in Rochester.


Action Plan DSI-22


Associated Objectives: Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future stormwater structures.


1. Work with Farmington DPW and NHDOT to schedule sand removal as part of road maintenance plan.

2. Dispose of materials properly.

3. Evaluate the success of the project and report on it.

Potential Partners: Farmington DPW, NHDOT

Location of Action (particular subwatershed or site): Upper Cocheco

Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Addition to road maintenance budget for Farmington DPW if necessary

Expected Benefits: Reduced erosion and sedimentation, improved water quality, fish habitat, aesthetics and access to the River.


Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Establish residual winter de-icing sand removal management from bridges in Farmington at Cocheco Road, old bridge by Route 11 on Mad River, and River Street Bridge on Mad River.


Action Plan DSI-23


Associated Objectives:o Improve enforcement of federal, state and local regulations that improve or

protect the quality of the Cocheco River. o Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use



1. Recruit volunteers from Riverside Drive neighborhood and plan restoration.

2. Work with Rochester DPW to remove accumulated yard waste.

3. Work with volunteers to re-plant vegetation along buffer area.

4. Educate neighborhood residents about composting or other means of disposing of their yard waste.

5. Evaluate the success of the project and report on it.

Potential Partners: City of Rochester Department of Public Works, CRWC, neighborhood residents.



Expected Benefits: Reduced erosion and sedimentation, improved water quality, trout habitat, aesthetics and buffer for the river.


Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Remove accumulation of yard waste at the Dewey Street footbridge in Rochester and restore river bank in that location.

Type of Action (choose one or more): x Regulatory Research x Infrastructure Change x Voluntary

Action Plan DSI-24


Associated Objectives:o Improve planning, design, and construction methods to reduce negative impacts

of development on the Cocheco River. o Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve treatment at existing and future



1. Survey existing planning and zoning ordinances and regulations in all watershed municipalities to determine how they could be modified to further protect the watershed.

2. Based on impervious cover measurements, development trends, and MS4 requirements, develop guidelines for level of stormwater protection.

3. Work with SRPC, DES and municipalities to utilize or develop model ordinances and regulations.

4. Through CRWC and RTAC members, work with land use boards to implement these new ordinances and regulations.

5. Evaluate changes in municipal stormwater regulations every two years and suggest modifications as needed.

Potential Partners: Municipal land use boards, SRPC, DES.


Costs and Funding (budget and potential funding source):Municipal budgets, grant funding.

Expected Benefits: Reduced impact from new and existing stormwater infrastructure.

Timetable: Near to long term.

Contingencies: None

Title of Action: Develop and implement a municipal stormwater ordinance and regulations that protect the river and its tributaries from additional pollutant loads and degradation.

Type of Action (choose one or more): x Regulatory Research x Infrastructure Change x Voluntary

Appendix D

Evaluating the Success of the Cocheco River Watershed Restoration Plan

Appendix D - Measuring the Success of the Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Cocheco River Watershed

Water Quality RestorationGoal Obj. # Objective Long Term Target Tool or Method of Evaluation

1Determine and minimize causes of anomalous

dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, and temperature fluctuations within the Cocheco River.

By 2015 all segments of the river (assessment units) support

designated uses under Class B water quality standards.

Water Quality monitoring and DES assessments as per the Consolidated Assessment and Listing Methodology

(CALM).

2Understand and eliminate impact of failed septic

systems and other bacterial loading on the Cocheco River.




(CALM).

3Determine and work to reduce sources of elevated

nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen) through modification of the sampling program.




(CALM).

4 Understand and reduce negative impact of stormwater discharge on the Cocheco River.




(CALM).

5Determine sources and impacts of metals

contamination in the Cocheco River Watershed and work to minimize impacts.




(CALM).

6Research impact of current and proposed

streamflow withdrawals on Cocheco River water quality.

No net increase in water withdrawls. Periodic surveys of Cocheco water withdrawals.

7Determine impacts of current and former land use

on Cocheco River water quality and work to reduce these effects.



Evaluation of water quality data and DES assessment.

Public Perception and EducationGoal Obj. # Objective Long Term Target Tool or Method

1 Improve public perception through increased access to the River for recreation and enjoyment.

By 2015, 5 new canoe landings completed. Successful institution of

an annual River Fest and photo contest.

User surveys, qualitative and quantitative reports, photo documentation.

2 Establish objective and subjective values for the river.

- Complete economic benefit study by 2008. - Complete State Desginated River Study by 2008. -

Complete water supply benefit studyby 2008. -

Complete stakeholder economic, aesthetic, environmental,

community and existence surveys every 3 years beginning in 2007.

Completed research documents and citizen surveys.

3Use Rochester and Dover river walks to improve public perception of the river in both urban and

rural settings.

Two urban riverwalks completed and used by 2015. Three rural riparian trails built and in use by

2015.

User surveys, qualitative and quantitative reports, photo documentation.

4Work closely with regional, state, and national

organizations and agencies on shared goals and objectives.

One new collaboration per year. Partner evaluation focus group every two years.

5 Encourage public participation in all aspects of river restoration activities.

Annual 25% increase in volunteer participation. Tracking by coordinator.

6Demonstrate that the river is a sum of all the large and small streams that feed into the Cocheco and

that attention to all these streams is important.

Effect a 10% annual increase in citizen understanding of watershed

concepts. Survey public in 2006 and again in 2015.

7 Conduct youth civic engagement activities focusedon river restoration.

One new GoMI team and one other new youth or school group each

year.

Qualitative case study of youth engagementeach year.

Impr

ove

the

wat

er q

ualit

y of

the

Coc

heco

Riv

er to

m

eet N

H C

lass

B w

ater

qua

lity

stan

dard

s by

201

5.

Cha

nge

the

nega

tive

publ

ic p

erce

ptio

n of

and

beh

avio

r tow

ards

the

Coc

heco

Riv

er s

o th

at th

e as

sets

and

be

nefit

s of

the

Coc

heco

Riv

er c

an b

e re

aliz

ed.

Appendix D - Measuring the Success of the Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Cocheco River Watershed

Habitat and Wildlife Restoration Goal Obj. # Objective Long Term Target Tool or Method

1

Conduct research on and conduct inventories of aquatic and terrestrial species and their habitat to evaluate the present condition of Cocheco River

corridor.

Natural Resource Inventories (NRI's) completed in watershed communities by 2010. Habitat

evaluations completed in all subwatersheds by 2015.

Reports and publications of NRI's and habitat evaluations. Tracking by

coordinator. Aquatic habitat use tracked by DES Assessments in accordance with

CALM.

2Determine the distribution of nuisance aquatic and

terrestrial species and habitat to evaluate the present condition of Cocheco River habitat.

Surveys of all subwatersheds by 2010.

Reports and publications of surveys.Tracking by coordinator.

3 Identify sites along tributary streams and the River needing restoration

All stream restoration surveys complete by 2010.

Complete listing of potential restoration sites each year. Tracked by coordinator.

4 Restore and protect instream and riparian habitat and buffer areas.

Complete restoration projects at one to two sites each year.

Photo documentation and written evaluation of habitat restoration by wildlife

resource professional for each project.

5 Improve recreational value of river by increasing healthy fish populations.

One fish restoration project initiated per year from 2006 to 2015.

Fish population and viability studies and evaluation by wildlife professional.

Development and Stormwater ImpactGoal Obj. # Objective Long Term Target Tool or Method

1Improve planning design and construction

methods to reduce negative impacts on the Cocheco River.

Low impact development practices (LID) required by ordinance in all subwatershed communities and stormwater infrastructure meets standards by 2015. Stormwater BMP training for all communities.

Survey of land use ordinances for LID and stormwater practices in each community.

BMP training follow up survey.

2Improve enforcement of federal, state, and local regulations that improve or protect the quality of

the Cocheco River.

There will be knowledge andenforcement of applicable

regulations by responsible officials in all watershed communities by

2010

Periodic surveys of officials between 2006 and 2010.

3Protect groundwater resources that provide public

water supply and recharge tributaries and the Cocheco River.

Permanent protection of 10% of land in the watershed with a focus

on water resources. 2015

Track land protection activities by local and regional land protection organizations. Use GRANIT conservation layer to assist with

tracking.

4Reduce stormwater runoff volume and improve

treatment at existing and future stormwater structures.

Increased use of BMP's, LID, or innovative stormwater technology at

3 or more sites per year.Stormwater pollutant loads in the Middle Cochecho, Lower Isinglass

and Lower Cocheco subwatersheds will not exceed 2005 levels.

Water quality monitoring of pre- and post- construction conditions including photo documentation and reports. Land use

ordinances in place in Farmington, Rochester, Dover and Somersworth that

require stormwater to remain on site for all new developments and re-developments.--

Move this to the Target column.

5

Determine the impact of road crossing design and maintenance on the water quality of the River and

tributary streams then work to correct any problems.

Fix three road crossing problems every two years beginning in 2007. Project tracking.

6Educate the public about the benefits of a healthy riparian buffer through the use of demonstration

sites and activities on the Cocheco River.

Develop three demonstration sites and hold a workshop at each site by

2015. Increased knowledge of riparian benefits by riparian

landowners.

Pre- and post- survey of workshop participants and citizens.

Und

erst

and

and

impr

ove

the

inst

ream

and

ripa

rian

habi

tat o

f the

Coc

heco

Riv

er w

ater

shed

to a

ssur

e th

e ec

olog

ical

wel

l bei

ng o

f the

Riv

er.

Min

imiz

e th

e im

pact

of s

torm

wat

er a

nd c

urre

nt a

nd fu

ture

dev

elop

men

t on

the

Coc

heco

Riv

er a

nd it

s tr

ibut

arie

s.

Documents

Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Coch. · iv Executive Summary The purpose of the Watershed Restoration and Implementation Plan for the Cocheco River is to summarize